This week is U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week, highlighting the urgent global health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AR). According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), antibiotic resistance is the culprit for over 2.8 million infections and more than 35,000 deaths in the U.S. annually.
The CDC emphasizes that suboptimal prescribing practices can lead to health inequities and increased antimicrobial resistance, disproportionately affecting specific populations. This year's focus is improving health equity by ensuring appropriate antibiotic and antifungal prescribing and use. Healthcare professionals have an instrumental role in controlling AR's spread and impact. To achieve this goal, healthcare providers must unite on this shared goal and come together to :
- Educate patients on proper antibiotic use. Let them know that managing viral infection symptoms without antibiotics is vital.
- Optimize antibiotic use. Advocate for the shortest effective duration.
- Amplify awareness with symbolic actions such as wearing purple in solidarity during USAAW 2023.
- Choose digital advocacy using social media platforms to spread knowledge and awareness.
The national response to antimicrobial resistance is crucial for global and national public health. By improving antibiotic use, the nation plays a significant role in addressing this challenge, contributing to health equity and ensuring fair opportunities for all to attain the highest level of health. Effective national strategies can lead to better health outcomes, reduce the burden of AR, and set an example for global efforts in combating this critical public health issue.
Mytonomy prioritizes education about antibiotic safety, empowering people to understand their role in mitigating antibiotic resistance. Patients and their families learn about safe antibiotic use by watching Mytonomy’s microlearning videos
- Safe Antibiotic Use
- Antibiotic Resistance
These videos are created with a focus on accessibility and engagement and address common questions patients have about the appropriate use of antibiotics such as when they are needed and how to take them.
