The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean would like to invite you to the launch of the World Antibiotic Awareness Week (WAAW) 2017, on Monday, 13 November 2017 in the Regional Office, Cairo, Egypt. The launch event and subsequent press conference will be held from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Kuwait Hall. 

The World Antibiotic Awareness Week is an annual global campaign led by the World Health Organization to increase understanding and raising awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

During the 64^th Session of WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, held in October 2017, an AMR Resolution was endorsed; highlighting the commitment of all countries in our Region to support AMR global plan implementation.

The WAAW will be observed this year from 13 to 19 November 2017 with a theme “Seek advice from a doctor before taking antibiotics” to advocate for the proper use of antibiotics among the general public. 

     Highlights of the event:

• Dr Rana Hajjeh, Director, Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control in the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, will discuss antibiotic resistance and why we need to take action now.
• During the event, a competition for the best media coverage on AMR in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region will be launched to help further raise awareness of the issue. 
• Launching of a Regional campaign material including radio spots and a short video film.

Dr Ibrahim El-Kerdany’ will moderate he event in both English and Arabic. Journalists will have the opportunity to interview the speakers after the press conference.                   

In this regard, we would appreciate receiving soonest confirmation on your availability, preferably not later than 9 November 2017, by email: emrgomac@who.int or by phone: Media and Communication Unit: Mona Yassin,  01006019284

Details of the event and the competition are available on http://www.emro.who.int/health-topics/antimicrobial-resistance/index.html.