Kingston, Jamaica, November 28, 2023 (PAHO/WHO) - During the week of November 18 - 24, Jamaica participated alongside several other countries in commemorating World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week (WAAW). The theme for this year, "Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together," underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among the public, governmental bodies, health experts, and international agencies in addressing the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.
The week-long activities commenced with a symposium/opening ceremony hosted by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) on Monday, November 20. This event involved participation from the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining (MOAFM), Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and the University of the West Indies (UWI).
Considering the threat of antimicrobial-resistant organisms, PAHO/WHO has been consistently providing technical support and training to facilitate capacity building for the detection and surveillance of AMR. This work encompasses research on antimicrobial consumption in health facilities, the development of antimicrobial alternatives through public-private partnerships, and advocacy for legislative action regarding the responsible use of antimicrobials across all sectors.
Recently, PAHO conducted crucial training sessions in priority areas of infection prevention and control, covering topics at both basic and advanced levels. This included injection safety training and the establishment of a respiratory protection programme, undertaken in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
The week's activities aimed to foster awareness and understanding of AMR through discussions, education, and training. Several agencies, including MOAFM and MIIC, also hosted WAAW activities, which were opened to the public.
