World Antimicrobial Awareness Week
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (18–24 November) reminds us that the power to protect lifesaving medicines lies in our hands. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rising globally — making common infections harder to treat and putting the health of our communities at risk.
As SAMDP, we join the global call to use antibiotics responsibly, strengthen prevention, and champion the One Health approach to safeguard the future of healthcare in South Africa.
Protect Antibiotics. Protect Our Future.
Antibiotics are powerful medicines that save lives — but when they are used incorrectly or too often, some germs become resistant. This is called antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and it makes infections much harder to treat.
How YOU Can Help Stop Resistance:
- Only take antibiotics if a doctor prescribes them
- Do not share antibiotics with anyone
- Do not keep leftovers for future use
- Always complete the full prescription, even if you feel better
- Prevent infections by washing hands often and staying up to date with vaccinations
Why It Matters
When germs no longer respond to medicines, common infections can become serious and difficult to treat.
Protecting antibiotics today protects your health tomorrow.
Together, we can prevent antimicrobial resistance and protect the medicines that protect us.
