On Jan. 17, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that declining private investment and lack of innovation in the development of new antibiotics were undermining efforts to combat drug-resistant infections.

Two new reports reveal a weak pipeline for antibiotic agents. The 60 products in development (50 antibiotics and 10 biologics) brought little benefit over existing treatments and very few target the most critical resistant bacteria (Gram-negative bacteria).