World Antibiotic Awareness Week, 18th-24th November 2019
Antimicrobials are vital to protect animal health and welfare. However, overuse and misuse of these agents is increasing development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on a global scale. In November 2016, the OIE launched its Strategy on Antimicrobial Resistance and the Prudent Use of Antimicrobials to help combat this rise in AMR.
World Antibiotics Awareness Week (WAAW) is held annually, this year from 18th-24th November. The goal of this week is to raise awareness of the health risks posed by antibiotic resistance and to promote good practice in this area of concern, in efforts to limit the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria throughout the world. The international community comes together to promote measures against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Coordinated action between human, animal and environmental sectors is crucial. This year’s global theme is prudent and responsible use of antimicrobials.
WAAW is about action and raising awareness. As such, the OIE is encouraging countries to organise and participate in events through this week, particularly to disseminate the OIE’s messages on AMR.
The OIE “We Need You” tools are available here
More information, including links to media resources, about WAAW can be found in the OIE AMR Portal:
http://www.oie.int/en/for-the-media/amr/
http://www.oie.int/index.php?id=2413&L=3
The FAO/OIE/WHO Tripartite Awareness Activities online map can be used to publicise events: http://apps.who.int/world-antibiotic-awareness-week/activities/en#/grid-content
With financial support of the Fleming Fund, the OIE will be supporting countries in the translation and printing of OIE awareness materials to be used during the WAAW events in countries. The OIE will also be organizing a Seminar on AMR for the Veterinary students and faculty staff of University of Veterinary Sciences at Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar on 27th November followed by a Workshop to review the implementation of Myanmar’s National Action Plan on AMR on 28th November with support of the Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department of Myanmar. The OIE will also be joining a tripartite event on AMR to be held in Bangkok during the WAAW this year.
Communication materials in various languages are available for download.
