November 18, 2025World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) is a World Health Organization (WHO) official health campaign that aims to raise awareness and understanding of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) amongst healthcare providers and within the wider community.
Run each year between 18 – 24 November, this year’s theme is ‘Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.’
AMR occurs when microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial agents, such as antibiotics. Drug-resistant microorganisms can spread between humans, animals, plants and the environment, and pose a global threat to animal and human health, food security, and economies.
The misuse and overuse of antimicrobials, combined with factors like pollution and weak healthcare systems, make it easier for resistance to develop and spread.
The ‘Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future’ theme is a strong reminder that AMR is already here and already affecting our health, food systems and economies. It’s closely linked to the environment and pollution, and we need to act now to address the threat before it gets worse. Together, we can preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials and build a healthier, more sustainable planet.
The Antimicrobial Stewardship team at Northern Health is responsible for leading surveillance and stewardship activities at an organisational level, but action needs to be taken by all members of the Northern Health family to implement AMS strategies as part of routine patient care.
“Antimicrobial Resistance is not a future challenge, it’s happening right now,” said Danni Miatke, AMS Lead Pharmacist.
“With approximately half of all patients treated at Northern Health receiving an antimicrobial during their admission, our healthcare providers have a real and tangible opportunity to invest in AMR action and a safer, healthier future.”
The WHO encourages the community to wear light blue to promote WAAW and bring light to antimicrobial resistance.
