World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial agents and can become difficult or impossible to treat.

The theme for the World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024 is “Educate. Advocate. Act now.”

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) are leading the 2024 campaign that emphasizes water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) as key tools in combatting AMR.

WHO’s work on WASH plays a pivotal role in reducing the need for antibiotics by preventing infections, which in turn helps limit the spread of resistant bacteria.

In June 2024, WHO, together with the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) launched a Global Framework for Action, for 2024-2030, to guide efforts to deliver safe and sustainable WASH, health care waste management and reliable electricity in all health care facilities.

During a High-Level Meeting on AMR held at the UN General Assembly on 26 September 2024, leaders highlighted the fact that over 1 billion people still rely on health care facilities that lack adequate WASH and electricity services, hampering efforts to combat AMR.

The meeting secured new political commitments for AMR action, particularly in integrating WASH practices into health care facilities and national strategies.

• Find out more about World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) and the global campaign here. 
• Read about the outcomes of the High-level Meeting on AMR.