World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2022: Preventing antibiotic resistance together

Marking World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2022, the Vet Board is pleased to share this message from the Australian Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Mark Schipp.

Dear veterinarians and animal health stakeholders

I write with an update on World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) 2022 and to share some useful resources. The theme of this year's event from 18-24 November is ‘Preventing antimicrobial resistance together'. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria become resistant or no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines such as antibiotics. AMR is a major global problem which affects humans, animals, plants and the environment.

Australian animal health professionals, as a first point of contact, play an important role in limiting the spread of AMR. It is important to carefully consider the use of antimicrobials when prescribing them, and advise animal owners about the importance of following veterinary instructions when using antimicrobials. Following antimicrobial guidelines is a critical component of implementing good antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) practices.

Together we can all make a difference and preserve antimicrobials for generations to come. During World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2022, I encourage everyone to raise awareness about AMR. The following resources are available, please share these with your networks:

• Information about AMR and World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW)
• Learn about Australia’s National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy
• Find practical resources about AMR and AMS at AMR Vet Collective
• For online AMS learning modules visit Veterinary Antimicrobial Stewardship (VetAMS)
• Key events for WAAW from the World Health Organisation
• Information on AMR from the Office of the Australian Chief Veterinary Officer (OCVO)

Thank you for your support

Dr Mark Schipp
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer

22 November 2022