Greece leads EU in antibiotic consumption rates
More than 35,000 people die each year in European Union countries from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Greece ranks first in antibiotic use among EU member states, with 28.5 defined daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants—well above the EU average of 20.
According to Greece’s National Public Health Organization, 12.1% of hospitalized patients develop at least one healthcare-associated infection, and many bacterial strains show resistance rates exceeding 50%.
To address this growing threat, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is launching an innovative social-media campaign featuring influencers from across the EU. These influencers will create content in their native languages to promote responsible antibiotic use.
The World Health Organization is also amplifying its message for this year’s awareness effort: “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.” The WHO warns that drug-resistant infections continue to rise while awareness, investment, and action remain insufficient.
World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week takes place from November 18–24.
