With almost 5 million deaths annually attributed to bacterial infections and inadequate investment in new antimicrobials, the WHO identifies AMR as a top global health threat.

World AMR Awareness Week, scheduled for November 18–24, emphasizes the crucial actions required to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with the theme of “preventing antimicrobial resistance together.”

AMR arises when microorganisms no longer respond to medicines designed to treat them, leading to increased disease spread and mortality risks.

Misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in human health and food production drive AMR.

Despite 93% of countries having AMR national action plans (NAPs), only 27% have budgeted plans, revealing a need for enhanced governance, leadership, and financial support.

The WHO's Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) antibiotic book (published in December 2022) aims to optimize global antimicrobial use.

The World AMR Awareness Week advocates collaborative efforts to protect antimicrobials and public health.

Additionally, the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting in September 2024 will urge countries to make bold commitments to address AMR.