World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW)

18 to 24 November is commemorated as World Antimicrobial Awareness Week every year.

About WAAW

WAAW is a global campaign that is celebrated annually to improve awareness and understanding of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and encourage best practices among the public.

About Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.

Objective

The key objectives of the plan are to improve awareness and understanding of AMR through effective communication, education and training.

Effects

As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become increasingly difficult or impossible to treat.