World AMR Awareness Week

World AMR Awareness Week is a global observance held each year for 7 days from November 18. It raises awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and encourages people, communities, and organizations to use antimicrobial medicines responsibly. The week is a chance to learn how everyday choices can help protect these important medicines for the future.

How World AMR Awareness Week started

The exact origin of World AMR Awareness Week is not well documented. The World Health Organization lists the observance as World Antibiotic Awareness Week in 2015, with the theme “Antibiotics: Handle with Care.” It was later renamed World AMR Awareness Week, reflecting a broader focus on antimicrobial resistance.

The World Health Organization marks the week from November 18 for 7 days. It is an awareness observance rather than a public holiday, and its activities often focus on sharing clear, practical information.

What antimicrobial resistance means

Antimicrobials are medicines used to prevent and treat infections in people, animals, and plants. Antibiotics are one type of antimicrobial. According to the World Health Organization, resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines. It is the microbes that become resistant—not a person’s body.

Antimicrobial resistance can make infections harder to treat. Using these medicines only when they are needed and in the way they are prescribed helps reduce avoidable use. That does not mean someone should stop taking a prescribed medicine or change how they take it on their own. Questions about treatment are best discussed with a qualified health professional.

AMR is often described as a “One Health” issue because the health of people, animals, plants, and the environment is connected. Actions in clinics, farms, food production, and communities can all contribute to responsible use and prevention of infection.

Ways to take part

World AMR Awareness Week offers approachable ways to learn and share, whether you are taking part at home, at school, at work, or in your community. Consider choosing an activity that fits your setting:

• Learn the basics. Read an AMR explainer from a trusted public health organization, then share one clear takeaway with friends or family.
• Ask questions about medicines. If you are prescribed an antimicrobial, ask the prescriber or pharmacist how and when to take it, and what to do if you have concerns. Follow their instructions rather than saving or sharing leftover medicine.
• Practice infection prevention. Make handwashing part of daily routines, follow food-safety guidance, and keep up with recommended vaccinations. These steps help prevent infections and can reduce the need for treatment.
• Talk about responsible use. Invite a healthcare professional, teacher, or community group to explain when antibiotics are useful and why they do not treat viral illnesses such as colds.
• Include animal health. If you care for animals, follow a veterinarian’s advice about medicines and infection prevention. Never use medication intended for people on an animal unless a veterinarian directs you to do so.
• Share reliable resources. Post or display information from trusted health organizations, and check that it is current and easy to understand before passing it along.

This page is for general awareness and isn't medical advice. For questions about your own health, talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on November 4, 2026 · Last updated November 4, 2026.

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