Table 1.

Factors related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that may influence its antimicrobial resistance.

Factors Favouring the Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance	Factors Favouring a Decrease in Antimicrobial Resistance
Increased use of biocidal agents in the environment Halt in research for other infectious diseases Unlicensed use of some agents Self-medication fuelled by the media covers and demand of potential treatments (i.e., hydroxychloroquine) Drug (especially narrow spectrum antimicrobials) and personal protective equipment shortages Increased rate of empirical antimicrobial treatment for respiratory illness Overcrowding and overloading of healthcare systems	Increased focus on hand hygiene Social distancing Reduced travel Decreased incidence of infections due to social distancing, enhanced hygiene, disinfection and other protective measures Public’s attention focused on infectious diseases Introduction of novel biomarkers (i.e., procalcitonin) Overall decreased antimicrobial consumption due to fewer patient consultations Reduction of critically ill patient transfer between countries
Increased rate of telemedicine in primary care (may favour both)