19 November 2024

World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) is marked from 18-24 November to raise awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobials are essential to treat serious infections caused by microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Unfortunately the more we use antimicrobials the less effective they become. The more bacteria are exposed to antibiotics, the more likely they are to become resistant. This means that antibiotics eventually stop working, certain infections become harder to treat, which increases the risk of severe illness, disease spread and even death. 

It is vital that antimicrobials are only used when they are needed.

What exactly is Antimicrobial resistance?

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) happens when microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) develop the ability to continue to grow, even when they are exposed to antimicrobial medicines that are meant to kill them or limit their growth (such as antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials, and anthelmintics).

AMR is one of the most serious health threats facing humanity which could cause 10 million deaths per year.

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What is the difference between antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic resistance?

Antimicrobial resistance refers to all microbes that resist treatments designed to destroy them. Antibiotic resistance specifically deals with bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.

There are ways in which we can all prevent AMR:

  • Preventing infections from happening in the first place by practicing good Infection Prevention and Control, good hand hygiene and adhering to requirements such as bare below the elbow rules.
  • Ensuring that we only use antibiotics when they are needed and not for self-limiting or viral infections or on a ‘just in case’ basis
  • Following evidence-based Antimicrobial Prescribing Guidance when an antimicrobial is needed. 
  • Taking antibiotics exactly as prescribed and not saving antibiotics for later. We should also encourage others to do the same
  • Promote Antimicrobial Stewardship within our teams by influencing prescribing practices of colleagues. 
  • Get vaccinated – Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent many infections. By preventing infections through vaccination, we also reduce antibiotic consumption therefore limiting the development of AMR.  

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week aims to increase awareness and knowledge of this important issue – You can take part by:

  • Circulating this message to your friends/family.
  • Making or renewing your Antibiotic Guardian pledge and encourage your colleagues/friends/family members to do the same!

Events to attend: 

NHS England are hosting daily online events during WAAW week. These are open to all and free to join. Click here to find out more - World AMR Awareness Week 2024 | NHS England Events

For more information: