Engaging Youth in Antimicrobial Resistance Prevention in Kyrgyzstan
In Kyrgyzstan, a WHO-organized event during World Antimicrobial Awareness Week educated 5th graders on preventing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The session included expert insights and practical advice to empower youth in combating AMR. Dr. Liviu Vedrasco from WHO highlighted the importance of engaging young minds in public health initiatives.
In observance of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Kyrgyzstan organized an educational event aimed at 5th-grade students, bringing to light the critical issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The event included presentations from representatives of the WHO, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Health, and Bishkek City Hall, who discussed the significance of addressing one of today’s most urgent global health challenges.
This engaging session offered the young attendees practical strategies for preventing AMR in their everyday lives. Participants learned the importance of regular hand-washing to minimize infection risks, the necessity of taking antibiotics strictly according to healthcare professionals’ prescriptions, and the value of promoting responsible medication usage among peers. Furthermore, experts provided insights into the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Dr. Liviu Vedrasco, the WHO Representative in Kyrgyzstan, emphasized the impact of the event on fostering a sense of responsibility among youth. He stated, “This event was a wonderful opportunity to empower children to understand their role in combating AMR. By engaging young minds, we are building a future generation that values and protects public health.”
The interactive nature of the event underlined the vital role that individuals of all ages can play in safeguarding health systems. As budding changemakers, these students are now integrated into a broader global initiative to ensure the sustained efficacy of antibiotics and essential medicines for future generations.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to public health worldwide, necessitating collaborative efforts to raise awareness and promote responsible medication practices. As young individuals represent the future custodians of health systems, educating them about AMR is imperative. Events held during World Antimicrobial Awareness Week serve to enlighten the younger population about practical measures they can employ to combat AMR, as well as the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of human and environmental health through the One Health approach.
The educational event hosted by the WHO in Kyrgyzstan exemplifies the proactive steps being taken to engage youth in the discourse surrounding antimicrobial resistance. By equipping children with knowledge and resources, the initiative fosters a generation capable of contributing to public health and combating AMR effectively. Such endeavors highlight the collective responsibility necessary to ensure the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.
Original Source: www.who.int
