ECCMID is the largest and most comprehensive scientific meeting in the field of infectious diseases in Europe. It brings together over 14,000 clinicians, scientists, researchers, and other healthcare professionals from all over the world to share the latest research and developments in the field. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the latest research, network with colleagues, and stay up to date on the latest developments in the field.

This year, BSAC were pleased to present updates on all our activities, including funding and research, to peer-reviewed publishing, surveillance, political engagement, education, advocacy and evaluation, as well news of our partnerships and collaborations, which amongst others include ABPI, Aviva Investors, Medicins Sans Frontieres, UKHSA, NHS England, Baille Gifford and One Health Trust.

We were particularly excited to share news about our Global Antimicrobial Stewardship Accreditation Scheme (GAMSAS), an ambitious initiative aimed at tackling AMR through accreditation and the spread of good practice in antimicrobial stewardship. Supported by AMS experts from across the world the scheme provides advice and access to a wealth of open-access education and training to enable facilities within any health economy to build robust and measurable antimicrobial stewardship services for their patients.

We also used the opportunity to lay out our immediate priorities, which in addition to establishing GAMSAS, include influencing the political landscape to ensure AMR is at the top of the health and security agenda, as well as establishing an AMS Fellowship Programme to secure our future AMR leaders.

As you can imagine, it was a busy few days, but invaluable in laying the groundwork for future partnerships and collaborations. And with the BSAC Spring Conference just around the corner, we look forward to seeing many of you again at the QEII Conference Centre in London on 18-19 May!