The Tripartite of the Food and Agriculture of the United Nations (FAO), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and the World Health Organization recently announced this year’s theme for the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). Spread Awareness, Stop Resistance is the new theme with Antimicrobials: Handle with Care still the overarching slogan.

The global event is celebrated from 18-24 November every year and is one of the most important events in the United Nations calendar. It aims to address the global health concern on the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

AMR is the ability of micro-organisms to survive from antimicrobials, which it previously was unable to do. AMR naturally occurs in bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, however, misuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals and plants has hastened its emergence and spread.