World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week 2024 (WAAW24) is a global campaign to highlight the challenge posed by antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
With a theme of ‘Educate. Advocate. Act now,‘ the WAAW24 is seeking to raise awareness and understanding of AMR and promote best practices among One Health stakeholders to reduce the emergence and spread of drug-resistant infections.
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs such as antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals.
This resistance renders treatments ineffective, leading to persistent infections, longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. The implications of AMR extend beyond individual health, affecting food production systems, global economies, and our environment.
Drug-resistant pathogens know no borders, posing a threat to everyone, everywhere. Infections that were once easily treatable now kill nearly 1.27 million people annually, with this number expected to rise unless decisive action is taken.
Why ‘Educate. Advocate. Act now’?
This year’s theme emphasises three critical pillars:
- Educate: Policymakers, healthcare professionals, veterinarians, farmers, and the general public must understand the risks of AMR and adopt responsible practices to reduce its spread. Education initiatives should highlight the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture.
- Advocate: Advocacy is needed to galvanise commitment from leaders at all levels. From local community health officials to heads of state, bold and sustained commitments are critical. The upcoming 2024 UNGA High-Level Meeting on AMR provides a pivotal moment for world leaders to unite in addressing the threat AMR poses to global health, food security, and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. It is also a chance to reinforce the One Health approach, which integrates efforts across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
- Act now: Awareness and advocacy must translate into action.
What Can You Do?
- Promote infection prevention: Vaccination, proper hygiene, and sanitation can reduce the need for antimicrobials.
- Support advocacy efforts: Join campaigns that demand stronger policies and increased funding to combat AMR.
- Get involved online: share credible information about AMR and its dangers. You can also download the campaign social media pack, and share on social platforms via the hashtag #WAAW.
Further resources
- WHO resources on AMR
- ESICM offers a range of valuable resources, including:
- AIRSPACE WEBapp—a tool designed to help ICU healthcare professionals make informed decisions on antimicrobial selection and dosing.
- Educational resources through the ESICM Academy
- Expert-led webinars on AMR
