PANEL – Bacterial Resistance to Disinfectants: Antimicrobial Resistance & Biofilm Formation

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is when microbes – viruses and bacteria – develop resistance to drugs or disinfectants and render them ineffective. Microbiologically contaminated surfaces then serve as fomites. If left undisturbed, bacteria and viruses can form biofilms on the fomites. These biofilms may allow microbes to survive for hours, weeks, or even months. Misuse and overuse of antimicrobials are the main drivers in the development of resistant environmental bacteria, exacerbated recently due to increased disinfection efforts to fight the pandemic.

The CDC and WHO have both declared that AMR is one of the top 10 global public health threats.

To raise awareness about the concern presented by antimicrobial resistance and biofilms, we hosted a virtual panel discussion featuring experts in microbiology and risk mitigation.