Every year, from 18th to 24th November, the world observes World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) to draw attention to one of the most pressing public health threats of our time, antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to warn that if we fail to act now, the world may soon return to a pre-antibiotic era, where even minor infections could once again become deadly.
In Pakistan, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics remain a serious challenge. Antibiotics are often sold over the counter without a prescription and self-medication is a widespread practice. Many people stop taking their antibiotics once symptoms improve, not realizing that incomplete treatment contributes directly to resistance. Similarly, in livestock and poultry, antibiotics are frequently used for growth promotion rather than for treatment, compounding the threat.
The theme for 2025, “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together,” emphasizes a One Health approach recognizing that human health, animal health and environmental health are interconnected. Addressing AMR requires cooperation across all these sectors. In Pakistan, this means not only improving the regulation of antibiotic sales and prescriptions but also promoting infection prevention, vaccination, clean water and sanitation to reduce the need for antibiotics in the first place.
The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination (NHSRC), with support from WHO and partners, has been making commendable efforts to raise awareness and strengthen the national AMR response. Initiatives such as the National Action Plan on AMR, developed with the support of WHO, aim to guide policies on surveillance, infection prevention and rational antibiotic use. Several hospitals and universities across the country now hold seminars and awareness campaigns during this week to educate health workers, pharmacists and the public. However, policy alone is not enough. Behavioural change remains the cornerstone of antibiotic stewardship. Doctors must avoid unnecessary prescriptions, pharmacists should dispense antibiotics only with valid prescriptions and the public must refrain from demanding antibiotics for viral illnesses like colds and flu. Equally important is the role of the agricultural sector in regulating antibiotic use in animals and ensuring that food production does not fuel resistance.
Pakistan, with its large population and limited access to regulated healthcare in some areas, faces unique challenges. Yet, this also presents an opportunity. Through stronger public education, improved laboratory surveillance and integrated action between human and animal health sectors, the country can serve as a regional model for combating AMR.
As we mark this year’s Antibiotic Awareness Week, every individual — whether a doctor, policy-maker, farmer or patient — must recognize their role in preserving the power of antibiotics. These life-saving medicines are a shared resource and their misuse threatens everyone. The message is simple but urgent: Handle antibiotics with care — our future health depends on it.
—The writer is Public Health Consultant.
