World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) for this year has great significance in the context of today's global health challenges. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a complex topic, often unfamiliar to the public. This year’s theme provides a crucial annual opportunity for countries worldwide to raise awareness of this global health threat to different audiences, from policymakers to health professionals and pet owners.
The theme ‘prevention’ is essential. Many people may not realize the gravity of AMR because they have not personally experienced its consequences, such as failed treatments that may result in prolonged hospital stays and burdening of healthcare services, life-threatening infections in both humans and animals, or reduced animal productivity due to ineffective antimicrobials. Hence, we must educate individuals on the responsible use of antimicrobials and strategies to slow the rise of AMR.