Consensus statement: Antimicrobial resistance in relation to the use of antimicrobial products in the home 2004

In 2000 the IFH Scientific Advisory Board carried out a detailed review of the scientific literature relating to antimicrobial resistance in relation to the use of biocides (see: Microbial resistance and biocides: a review of the evidence base). The aim was not only to understand what is known about the relationship between exposure to biocides and reduced sensitivity to antibiotics and biocides, but to attempt to clarify the practical implications for the use of biocides in the domestic environment. The Board issued a consensus statement on this issue based on their review of the currently available scientific data. In making their 2000 consensus statement regarding concerns about biocide use in relation to antimicrobial resistance, the IFH board agreed, however, that this aspect requires constant review. In 2004 the subject was re-evaluated in light of new data that had become available since the first publication in 2000 (see: Biocide usage and antimicrobial resistance in home settings: an update). The IFH Board agreed that their consensus view on this issue remained the same.