World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) 2023, 18 - 24 November, a global initiative to raise awareness and encourage action to tackle the emergence and spread of drug-resistant pathogens, is starting today. 

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a threat to humans, animals, plants, and the environment, and it affects everyone. The theme for WAAW 2023, maintained from 2022 is: "Preventing antimicrobial resistance together". The theme emphasizes the need for a One Health approach involving multiple sectors to preserve the efficacy of antimicrobials. Addressing AMR requires collective efforts from all levels of society, as the main drivers of AMR are the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials. Therefore, adopting a whole-of-society and multi-sectoral approach is essential to address this global issue effectively. 

To effectively reduce AMR, all sectors must use antimicrobials prudently and appropriately, and take preventive measures to decrease the incidence of infections. The following actions can help reduce the need for antimicrobials and minimize the emergence of AMR: 

• strengthen infection prevention and control in health facilities, farms and food industry premises; 
• ensure access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene, and vaccines; 
• minimize pollution and ensure proper waste and sanitation management; 
• access to quality assured healthcare for all; and 
• access to advice from experts during animal, food and agricultural production. 

Codex and its role in AMR 

Foodborne AMR is a food safety issue. Codex texts outline the steps and policies that decision-makers should take to protect the health of consumers and ensure fair practices in the food trade. Improved management of foodborne AMR can be accomplished through activities described in the Codex AMR texts. 

Codex has developed three core texts on foodborne AMR to provide a framework for addressing AMR along the food chain: 

Learn more: 

World AMR Awareness Week 2023: Get Involved

Foodborne antimicrobial resistance: Compendium of Codex standards