Tracking progress on antimicrobial resistance with TrACSS database in Italy: a short report

Antimicrobial resistance is a global health priority and a critical issue for Italy, where resistance rates are among the highest in Europe.

This report analyses the results of the 2022-2025 Tracking Antimicrobial Resistance Country Self-Assessment Survey (TrACSS) and the actions outlined in the National Plan to Combat Antibiotic Resistance (NPCAR).

Italy has a robust surveillance system, integrated at European and global levels, and the ClassyFarm platform supports a One Health approach to data collection. However, infection prevention and control (IPC) measures have weakened, with a high prevalence of healthcare-associated infections.

Antimicrobial stewardship shows progress, but antibiotic use remains excessive and uneven across regions. Strengthening IPC, integrating surveillance with prescription data, and ensuring consistent implementation of stewardship programmes are key priorities to enhance the national AMR response.

Overall, Italy is moving towards an effective integrated One Health strategy, but sustained, harmonized actions are essential to reduce AMR-related mortality, healthcare burden, and societal costs.