Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is invisible. I am not.
World AMR Awareness Week
November 18-24, 2024

The Go Blue for AMR is a campaign event. On November 24 monuments and landmarks across Canada will light up Blue to recognize WAAW and we can wear blue in support of the campaign.

“Overcoming a severe MRSA infection that almost claimed both my face and life required a strict commitment to following my antibiotic prescription protocols, which included the use of last-resort medications at certain points. Additionally, maintaining rigorous infection control and hygiene practices was crucial—not only from my healthcare providers, but also from me, as the patient.

The importance of practices like hand hygiene, sanitation, and infection prevention both inside and outside of hospitals cannot be overstated in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These measures saved my life, and as a patient who could have transmitted my resistant infection to others, I believe they helped save other lives too. AMR is complex, but these simple actions can make a significant impact in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and help to keep patients safe.”

Vanessa Carter, Chair of the WHO Task Force of AMR Survivors

World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) is an annual event, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). In Canada, several organizations support the campaign including Patients for Patient Safety Canada (PFPSC) and AMR Aware Canada

The theme selected by WHO and the WHO Taskforce of AMR Survivors is AMR is invisible, I am not. It has a particular focus on prevention through patient, family, and public engagement.

In Canada 1 in 4 infections are already resistant to the first drugs used to treat them and 15 people die each day due to AMR infections. Bacterial pneumonia, gonorrhea and urinary tract infections are some of the common infections that are becoming harder to treat. Without effective antibiotics, other treatments will also become risky. Patients needing surgery, dialysis and chemotherapy will be poorly protected from the risks of life-threatening infections.

Here is how each of us can contribute to preventing antimicrobial resistance:

ASK

ASK yourself and others in your circle, especially those most vulnerable, what AMR means, ways it can impact us, and ways we can increase the safety of ourselves, those we care about and healthcare staff.

WHAT IS AMR

Five things to know about antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

LISTEN

LISTEN to the experiences of others with empathy and respect for their truth. Listening is caring and creates connection and healing for the person who shares their story and the person who listens. When words can’t express something, art helps. We curated a special gallery for AMR.

Vanessa’s story of contracting and living with AMR with a call to prevent infections and preserve antibiotics
Beth’s story shows how sepsis and infections can suddenly come in our lives, and call to action to be active participants in care and speak up.

ACT

ACT to increase safety for you, your loved ones, those you provide care to, and everyone who wants safer healthcare. Healthcare associated infections are reduced when health facilities are clean, surfaces disinfected, and procedures are performed that ensure germs do not enter our bodies. Everyone performing hand hygiene is of utmost importance. When infections are reduced, less antibiotics are used and resistant organisms are better controlled.

Share and add your stories and the campaign on social media using #patients4safety; #WAAW2024; #AMR

RESOURCES

Tips from the Experts: How to Reduce the Risk of Infection in Healthcare Facilities

Get in touch to start making a difference today.

“In honor of those who have died, those left disabled, our loved ones today and the world’s children yet to be born, we will strive for excellence, so that all involved in healthcare are as safe as possible as soon as possible.”
– LONDON DECLARATION

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