March 30, 2015 - There are few global public health issues of greater importance than antimicrobial resistance in terms of impact on society. Many existing antimicrobials are becoming less effective and the development pipeline for new antibiotics is at an all-time low. Thus, change is needed to address antimicrobial resistance. This complex global public health challenge is tackled in a timely special focus issue of Future Microbiology, a peer-reviewed journal published by Future Medicine Ltd. Modern medicine relies on the widespread availability of effective antimicrobials to prevent and treat infections in humans and animals. However, resistance to all antimicrobials is growing; bacterial resistance to antibiotics being of the greatest concern. Microbial evolution cannot be outpaced, therefore, the solution will involve global collaboration and a more intelligent use of antibiotics. Future Microbiology's special focus issue brings together experts in the field to contribute on a broad range of topics to create a comprehensive update on antimicrobial resistance. It includes a range of Reviews, Perspectives, Editorials and Primary Research papers that cover some of the ways in which we can address this problem. Coverage includes tools for screening and surveillance, to alternative therapeutic options. "Antimicrobial resistance is a highly important public health … Continue reading →