The WHO Country Office in Kyrgyzstan held an educational event for 5th graders during World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, focusing on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Students learned key preventive measures against AMR through engaging sessions led by experts from various health organizations. Dr. Liviu Vedrasco emphasized the importance of empowering youths in public health matters, reminding that all ages contribute to health system safeguarding.
In observance of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Kyrgyzstan organized an educational event targeting 5th-grade students, encouraging their participation in discussions about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Esteemed speakers from WHO, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Health, and Bishkek City Hall addressed the attendees about the critical issue of AMR, which poses a significant threat to global health.
During this interactive session, students were equipped with essential strategies to combat AMR in their daily routines. This included advocating for regular handwashing to prevent infections, emphasizing the necessity of only using antibiotics when they are prescribed by healthcare professionals, and fostering awareness around the responsible use of medicines. The experts delved into the intriguing realm of bacteria and elaborated on the One Health approach, illustrating the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health.
Dr. Liviu Vedrasco, WHO Representative in Kyrgyzstan, remarked on the importance of empowering youth. He stated that the event was “a wonderful opportunity to empower children to understand their role in combating AMR.” Engaging the minds of young individuals serves to cultivate a future generation that prioritizes and supports public health. Ultimately, this initiative served as a reminder that irrespective of age, every individual can play a vital role in preserving health systems. Collectively, these young changemakers have joined a worldwide movement aimed at ensuring that antibiotics and other life-saving medications remain effective for future generations.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health concern characterized by the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against previously treatable infections, leading to increased mortality and healthcare costs. The World Health Organization has underscored the necessity of raising awareness regarding the responsible use of antimicrobials to combat this growing threat. Engaging young people in this discourse is crucial, as they are the future guardians of public health and can influence behaviors that mitigate AMR from a young age.
The educational event in Kyrgyzstan successfully engaged young students in the critical issue of antimicrobial resistance, providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to play an active role in public health. By fostering awareness and responsibility in the use of antibiotics, this initiative lays a strong foundation for future generations to combat AMR and protect global health effectively. The involvement of diverse health experts highlights the importance of a united approach to this pressing challenge.
Original Source: www.who.int
