World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week 2024

World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week takes place every year from 18 to 24 November and will be held for the 10th time in 2024. Aim is to raise awareness about the dangers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and promoting best practices to prevent the spread of drug-resistant infections. It engages the general public, healthcare professionals, and policymakers in efforts to combat AMR. In 2024 the theme for the global campaign is “Educate. Advocate. Act now.”


World Antimicrobial Resistance Week

18 – 24 November 2024


The “Educate. Advocate. Act now.” theme was selected following feedback from an online survey of stakeholders across human, animal, plant, and environmental health sectors, which gathered nearly 200 responses from around the world.
Antimicrobial resistance is a critical global health and socioeconomic challenge, affecting human and animal health, food production, and the environment. Drug-resistant pathogens threaten lives everywhere, yet greater public and stakeholder awareness is still needed. This year’s theme calls on the global community to educate stakeholders about AMR, advocate for bold commitments, and take decisive action to combat it. Key events like the 2024 UNGA High-level Meeting on AMR and the fourth Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR offer crucial opportunities for political and financial commitments, as well as greater accountability. Stronger political leadership, advocacy, and action are essential—now is the time to respond.

World Antimicrobial Resistance Week Theme 2024:

Educate. Advocate. Act now.


World AMR Awareness Week Infographic
World AMR Awareness Week Infographic, Source: WHO

Facts about Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

 

What are Antimicrobials?

Antimicrobials—including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics—are used to prevent and treat infections in humans, animals, and plants. Microorganisms that develop resistance to these drugs are often referred to as “superbugs.”

What is Antimicrobial resistance?

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) undermines the ability to prevent and treat a growing number of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi. AMR occurs when these microorganisms evolve over time and become resistant to medications, making infections more difficult to treat and raising the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. As a result, treatments become ineffective, allowing infections to persist and spread to others.

How is at risk of AMR?

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a leading global threat to public health and development, impacting nations across all regions and income levels. Its causes and effects are intensified by poverty and inequality, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the greatest burden.

How to prevent AMR?

Preventing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) requires coordinated efforts across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and public health. Here are key strategies to help combat AMR:

  • Use Antimicrobials Responsibly: Only use prescribed medications, Avoid unnecessary use, Limit use in animals and agriculture
  • Improve Infection Prevention and Control: Good hygiene, Vaccination, Hospital infection control
  • Enhance Diagnostics and Surveillance: Accurate diagnosis, Track resistance patterns
  • Promote Research and Innovation: New treatments, Stewardship programs
  • Strengthen Policies and Regulations: Regulate antibiotic use, One Health approach
  • Public Education and Awareness: Raise awareness, Health worker training
  • Limit the Environmental Spread: Safe disposal, Reduce contamination

 

World AMR Awareness Week info


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