Over 35,000 people die annually in European Union countries from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Greece ranks first among EU nations in antibiotic consumption, with 28.5 defined daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants compared to the EU average of 20.
According to Greece’s National Public Health Organization, 12.1% of hospitalized patients develop at least one healthcare-associated infection, with many bacteria showing resistance rates exceeding 50%.
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is launching an innovative campaign using social media influencers across EU countries to raise awareness. Influencers will create content about prudent antibiotic use in their native languages.
The World Health Organization’s campaign message, “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,” emphasizes urgent action. The WHO warns that “drug-resistant infections are increasing, yet awareness, investments and actions remain insufficient.”
World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week runs from November 18-24.