Antibiotic Awareness Week November 18-24: Why We Must Lead the Fight Against AMR
Every November, healthcare professionals worldwide observe Antibiotic Awareness Week, a campaign dedicated to promoting responsible antibiotic use and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This year’s theme, “Fighting Antimicrobial Resistance Takes All of Us”, underscores the critical role clinicians play in preserving the effectiveness of these life-saving drugs.
The Scope of the Problem
AMR is often called the “silent pandemic.” In the United States alone, more than 2.8 million antimicrobial-resistant infections occur annually, resulting in over 35,000 deaths (CDC). Globally, projections estimate 10 million deaths per year by 2050 (WHO).
These infections lead to:
- Longer hospital stays and higher costs
- Increased morbidity and mortality
- Limited treatment options as new antibiotics remain scarce
Why We Are Central to Antimicrobial Stewardship
Every antibiotic prescription is an opportunity to protect—or compromise—the future of these drugs. Clinicians influence stewardship through:
- Diagnostic accuracy: Avoid unnecessary antibiotics for viral infections.
- Therapeutic optimization: Choose the right drug, dose, and duration.
- Patient education: Explain why antibiotics may not be appropriate.
Practical Tips for Clinicians
- Review CDC Core Elements
- CDC Core Elements of Antibiotic Stewardship provide a framework for action.
- Use clear communication with patients about when antibiotics are needed
- “Your symptoms are caused by a virus, so antibiotics won’t help. Taking antibiotics when they’re not needed can make future infections harder to treat.”
- Provide written instructions for symptom management and when to return for care.
Key Takeaways
- AMR is a global health crisis with local impact.
- Clinicians are the gatekeepers of antibiotic use.
- Stewardship interventions—time-outs, audit-feedback, patient education—are proven strategies.
Call to Action:
Join the movement during U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week. Share your commitment using #USAAW25 and #AntibioticsAware, and explore resources at CDC Antibiotic Awareness and WHO AMR.