Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an escalating risk to global health and is currently becoming more pronounced in the country. The National Antimicrobial Resistance Committee has been actively promoting World AMR Awareness Week since 2015. This year, the awareness week commenced on November 18 and will continue until November 24.
The primary focus of this initiative is to underline the significance of awareness, proper hygiene, and vaccination strategies, drawing insights from the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, the Chief Medical Advisor of the Health Ministry, inaugurated AMR Week in Labasa, emphasizing that AMR not only jeopardizes the achievements of modern medicine but also puts lives at risk today.
Dr. Cikamatana presented Fiji’s proactive stance with its National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, which is now in its second iteration. This plan delineates crucial objectives and promotes collaboration across various health sectors.
She urged the public to heed healthcare professionals’ guidelines regarding antibiotic usage, to refrain from sharing prescriptions, and to avoid requesting antibiotics when they are not needed. Dr. Cikamatana called for a united response from all sectors, including human health, animal health, and environmental protection, to tackle AMR and safeguard both local and global health.
Through persistent education, advocacy, and action, Fiji has the potential to make significant contributions toward a healthier future for all.
This week serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility everyone shares in addressing AMR. By raising awareness and promoting responsible antibiotic use, we can move toward a world where effective medicines remain a staple of modern healthcare.
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