Should Canada Do More to Fight Antibiotic-Resistant Superbugs?
Official title: Antimicrobial Resistance
The House of Commons Health Committee is studying antimicrobial resistance—when bacteria, viruses, and other germs stop responding to the drugs designed to kill them. This is a growing global health crisis. The committee wants to hear from Canadians about how to tackle it.
Why This Matters
Ever had a doctor say antibiotics won't help your infection? That's becoming more common. Superbugs kill thousands of Canadians yearly and make routine surgeries riskier. If you've worried about a loved one's infection not responding to treatment, this study could shape how Canada fights back.
What Could Change
Parliament could recommend new rules on antibiotic use in hospitals and farms. Funding for new drug research might increase. Doctors could face stricter prescribing guidelines. Canada's approach to this global health threat could shift significantly.
Key Issues
- How should Canada reduce overuse of antibiotics in healthcare and agriculture?
- What investments are needed to develop new antimicrobial drugs?
- How can Canada better track and respond to resistant infections?
How to Participate
- Submit a written brief to the Health Committee sharing your expertise or experience with antimicrobial resistance. Use the online submission form.
- Watch past committee meetings on this study to understand what's been discussed. View meeting recordings.
- Contact the committee clerk for questions about participating. Visit the committee contact page.