Amman, November 21 (Petra) – The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), held a meeting on Wednesday at the Jordan Health Forum to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

The event brought together directors from hospital departments, primary healthcare, epidemiology, and health directorates across the governorates, as well as government hospital officials.

In a statement issued Thursday, the ministry noted that the meeting coincided with the launch of activities for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, observed annually from November 18 to 24. The initiative aligns with the ministry's commitment to combating AMR in partnership with stakeholders through the implementation of the National Action Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance (2023–2025).

Director of the Primary Health Care Department, Riyadh Shayab, highlighted the ministry's pivotal role, alongside partner agencies, in achieving the strategic goals of the National Action Plan. He emphasized the importance of unifying national efforts to secure community support for the rational use of treatments, particularly antibiotics and other antimicrobials.

Participants in the meeting reviewed the annual report of the plan and underlined the ministry’s integrated approach to addressing AMR. This includes activities to equip healthcare professionals to combat the phenomenon and community-focused initiatives to raise awareness. They stressed the need to educate the public on the dangers of misusing antimicrobials and the importance of seeking medical advice before using such treatments.

The ministry is also running a digital awareness campaign through its Health Awareness and Media Directorate to promote positive behavioral practices that mitigate AMR. Content is being shared on the ministry’s official social media platforms, as well as the pages of the Health Awareness and Media Directorate and Community Health Committees.

Additionally, specialized programs targeting behavioral and social change are being implemented in cooperation with health directorates and community committees. Awareness activities include urging individuals to consult specialists before using antimicrobials and promoting health education through health centers across the Kingdom.

//Petra// AJ

21/11/2024 13:27:25