To curb it effectively, all sectors must join forces and encourage the prudent use of antimicrobials, as well as preventive measures. Strengthening infection prevention and control in health care facilities, farms and food industry premises, ensuring access to vaccines, clean water, sanitation and hygiene, implementing best practices in food and agriculture production, and guaranteeing the sound management of waste and wastewater from relevant industries are critical to reducing the need for antimicrobials and minimizing the emergence and transmission of AMR.
The slogan of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week remains ‘Antimicrobials: Handle with Care‘. WAAW is celebrated from 18 to 24 November every year.