World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW): 18-24 November
Keep antibiotics working!
Antibiotics are the cornerstone of modern medicine, from treating infections to making surgeries and cancer treatments safer. But when they are overused or misused, especially for viral illnesses like colds and flu, bacteria can become resistant. This leads to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global threat that makes infections that were once treatable harder, and sometimes impossible, to cure.
The World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) Campaign is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness of AMR and its potential impact on public health.
This year’s theme, “Act Now, Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future”, calls for the urgent need to take bold, united action to address AMR. It is not a future challenge. It is happening now.
In south east London we are making progress; the overall amount of antibiotic prescribing has reduced, but prescribing of certain antibiotics is gradually increasing, which shows that we have more to do.
How can you help?
Everyone can contribute to the fight against AMR. Here are some simple but powerful actions:
- Don’t take antibiotics for colds and flu – they won’t help because these illnesses are caused by viruses, not bacteria. If in doubt, go to your local pharmacy for advice.
- Never save antibiotics for later use – they won’t work properly and could make the problem worse.
- When prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as directed by your GP, nurse or pharmacist, to make sure they are effective.
- Become an Antibiotic Guardian and commit to using antibiotics responsibly. You can make your pledge here.
- Spread the word on Social Media using hashtags like #KeepAntibioticsWorking and #AntibioticResistance.
We all have a role to play in protecting antibiotics. Let’s unite to keep these powerful medicines working for us now and for future generations.