Antimicrobial resistance

The Quadripartite organizations - the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH, founded as OIE) are pleased to announce the theme of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) 2022: ‘Preventing antimicrobial resistance together’.

 Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat to humans, animals, plants and the environment. It affects us all. This is why this year’s theme calls for collaboration across sectors to preserve the efficacy of these critical medicines. Fighting AMR is a truly global endeavour and must be addressed through a One Health approach.

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.

Preventing antimicrobial resistance together

WAAW 2022 materials will be available in the coming weeks.

The WAAW 2021 campaign site can be accessed here.