From November 18 to 24, the World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week is celebrated annually. From the CAIR project, which works in the community of Carrús (Elche) with AMR as its central axis, we take advantage of this important event to reflect on what we can do together.
Understanding AMR: a global challenge that requires local action
Antimicrobial Resistance is not a science fiction topic; it is a biological reality that affects us directly. It occurs when microorganisms (such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites) evolve and stop responding to treatments designed to combat them. As a result, infections become more difficult to treat, which increases the risks of serious illness, spread and, in extreme cases, death.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed it as one of the 10 main threats to global public health. In Spain, ADRs are associated with around 4,000 deaths per year. In light of this reality, the 68th World Health Assembly (May 2015) promoted a global action plan focused on awareness and knowledge.
CAIR and our constructive approach: beyond the hospital
Although most interventions focus on prescription control in hospitals and primary care centers, at CAIR we firmly believe in a broader, community-based approach.
This is where community pharmacy and citizen engagement come into play:
- The role of the pharmacy: We have a huge opportunity to actively involve our neighbourhood pharmacies. Pharmacists are an easily accessible point of contact and a key link in optimising antibiotic use, offering first-hand information and guidance to residents.
- Our role as part of the community: Eradicating misconceptions is essential to combat AMR. We need to raise awareness about:
- Do not treat viruses with antibiotics: Antibiotics only work against bacteria. They should never be used to treat a cold or flu (which are caused by viruses)
- Complete the course of treatment: It is vital not to interrupt antibiotic treatment, even if symptoms have resolved. Stopping the medication early allows more resistant bacteria to survive and multiply.
The solution lies in “One Health”
World AMR Awareness Week promotes best practices under the “One Health” concept. This means recognizing that the health of people, animals and our environment are intrinsically connected. Reducing the occurrence and spread of AMR in the future is a shared responsibility that requires coordinated action between the public, healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies.
From the CAIR project, we work to be this bridge of knowledge and action in Carrús. Participation, commitment of all people and responsible use of medicines are key to protecting our collective health.