As its genesis so potently illustrates, the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) will not be defused by an antibiotics arms race against the superbug. Yes, new antibiotics form part of the answer, but work is needed in other areas and sectors to ensure the effectiveness of existing and novel drugs is maintained. With resistant bacteria emerging in humans, animals and the environment – and spreading from one compartment to another – there is no geographical frontier or human/animal barrier.