SIDP is proud to participate in Antibiotic Awareness Week. Infectious Diseases Pharmacists are an integral member of the healthcare team, working to promote judicious use of antibiotics to limit development of resistance.
What is Antibiotic Awareness Week?Antibiotic Awareness Week is an annual one-week observance that gives participating organizations an opportunity to raise awareness of the threat of antibiotic resistance and the importance of appropriate antibiotic use. In the US, this week was previously called Get Smart Week. Globally this is recognized as World Antibiotic Awareness week. At least 2 million people each year become infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the United States. The single most important factor leading to antibiotic resistance is the use of antibiotics. Data have shown that up to 50% of all the antibiotics prescribed for people are potentially unnecessary or not optimally effective as prescribed. What is Antibiotic Resistance?When microbes are able to resist the effects of drugs, this is called antibiotic resistance. This resistance allows the microbe to grow and not be killed by the drug. Infections due to these resistant organisms are often more difficult and costly to treat. What is "Be Antibiotics Aware"?The Be Antibiotics Aware campaign was developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to educate healthcare professionals, patients and families to use antibiotics judiciously to help limit the development of antibiotic resistance. CDC has developed a library of tools and educational materials to support education and raise awareness. These are available on the CDC website at: www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use. |
SIDP has a number of resources to help support antimicrobial stewardship and education about antibiotic resistance. These include:
SIDP Features for Antibiotic Awareness Week 2023 |
The Pharmacist's Role in Combating Antibiotic Resistance |
SIDP Clinician Spotlight for Antibiotic Awareness Week |
U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week is November 18th-24th. During this observance, SIDP is highlighting pharmacists who promote optimal antibiotic use and combat the threat of antibiotic resistance in impactful and innovative ways.
Advancing Health Equity in Antimicrobial Stewardship - Dr. Edoabasi McGee |
Leveraging State & Federal Health Departments to Promote Health Equity - Dr. Callyn Wren |
Previous Antibiotic Awareness Week Content from SIDP