Over 35,000 people die each year in the European Union due to infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Greece has the highest antibiotic consumption in the EU, recording 28.5 daily doses per 1,000 people, well above the EU average of 20.
Health authorities report that 12.1% of hospitalized patients in Greece develop at least one healthcare-associated infection, with several bacteria showing resistance rates higher than 50%.
To combat this growing threat, a new EU-wide awareness campaign is being rolled out using social media influencers who will promote responsible antibiotic use in their own languages. The initiative supports a global call for action under the message: “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,” highlighting the urgent need to curb antimicrobial resistance.
World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week is observed from November 18–24 to encourage education and responsible antibiotic practices.