Glossary of Terms
Antimicrobials
Antimicrobials are substances that kill microorganisms or suppress their growth. They are used to prevent bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoal infections in humans and animals and are commonly referred to as antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiprotozoals.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections.
The categorisation of antibiotic classes for veterinary use is available here.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when micro-organisms adapt and the medicines used to treat infections caused by these micro-organisms are no longer effective.
Bacteria
Bacteria are one of the major groups of microorganisms or microbes. Some bacteria are pathogenic, meaning they can cause infections and diseases in humans and animals, while others are harmless. The harmless bacteria are often referred to as commensal bacteria and have beneficial properties.
Microorganisms or microbes
Microorganisms or microbes are microscopic living organisms. Examples include bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and some fungi and parasites. They are widespread in nature where they sustain ecosystems. Many are essential to human and animal health. However, some may cause disease in humans and animals.
One Health
A concept promoting a ‘whole of society’ approach which recognises that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and the environment.
Read more about the One Health initative here.
Zoonosis
A Zoonosis, zoonotic disease or zoonoses, is an infectious disease that is transmitted between species from animals to humans, or from humans to animals.
Zoonotic Bacteria
Zoonotic bacteria are bacteria that can be transmitted from animals to humans.