MP attends launch of new report into infection

Sir Peter recently attended the Westminster launch of a new report by the Society for General Microbiology – Microbiology and the challenge of sexually transmitted infections: are we up to it?

He said: “There is serious concern over the burden of sexually transmitted infections in the UK and overseas, including the worrying threat of antibiotic resistance and the risks these diseases pose, including mortality and infection of the unborn child.

“We must recognise the importance of interdisciplinary scientific research and support microbiologists in their work to develop new treatments to combat STIs, which contribute to wider efforts to improve sexual health.”

The SGM is the largest microbiological society in Europe and publishes academic journals in microbiology and virology.

Professor Nigel Brown, president of the SGM, said: “There is huge concern about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant infections, which may eventually become untreatable.

“A concerted effort is needed if we’re to tackle infectious diseases.”

He added microbiologists would play a key role in improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of STIs.