Flashmob dedicated to European Antibiotic Awareness Day

Europe records approximately 670,000 infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria each year, leading to over 35,000 deaths. These figures signal a serious phenomenon that requires increased information, education and intervention actions in the field. 

In this regard, the European Antibiotic Awareness Day was established, celebrated annually on November 18 as an initiative that aims to raise awareness about the importance of prudent use of antibiotics and the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to human health. 

To support this initiative, teaching staff and resident physicians from the Department of Infectious Diseases of ”Nicolae Testemitanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy organized a flashmob on the topic "Antibiotics: use them carefully, save the future!". The event took place at ”Toma Ciorba” Infectious Diseases Hospital - a clinical base for students and resident physicians of the University. The action aimed to alert decision-makers and the population about the irresponsible use of antimicrobials, as well as about the increase in antibiotic resistance worldwide, including in the Republic of Moldova. 

The flashmob participants were divided into several groups that presented written messages such as antimicrobial resistance, or statistical data on AMR. Another group simulated a dialogue between the positive and negative effects of irrational antibiotic use. Among the basic ideas promoted by the medical students were correct and early diagnosis, taking bacterial cultures before recommending the antibiotic, choosing the right molecule, dosage, methodology and administration, reviewing the treatment after 48-72 hours. Other participants carried banners illustrating the six multi-resistant bacteria to antibiotics, which are common causes of nosocomial infections, such as: Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter. Finally, the participants launched the message: "Antibiotics save our lives today, but only responsible use will save them tomorrow. We are doctors! We are stewardship".

The coordinator of the action, Associate Professor Gheorghe Placinta, head of the Department of Infectious Diseases, mentioned that there is a major resistance to antibiotics, and the pharmaceutical industry and science are unable to develop other remedies in a limited time. "We, as teachers, have a responsible attitude and strive to train professionals in the Rational Antibiotherapy module in the specialties: Primary Care, Emergency Care, Intensive Care and Resuscitation, Family Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Pediatrics. Through this action, we are calling on all those interested to advocate for lasting health, I am addressing those who are responsible for prescribing antibiotics - doctors of various specialties and pharmacists - to be vigilant and responsible for each recommendation they make", Associate Professor Placinta emphasized. 

Gheorghe Savin, a 5th year resident in the Infectious Diseases specialty, has told us that there are many patients who do not comply with the therapeutic regimen indicated by the doctor, respectively resorting to many additional treatment sources. "Lately, social networks have influenced the population in terms of administering medications in various treatments. Given that there are many sources of information, I come with a recommendation that every citizen who has a health problem should go directly to the doctor and avoid the possible consequences of improper treatment," the young specialist specified. 

We would like to note that, from November 18 to 24, 2025, the Republic of Moldova is participating in the global action "World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week", organized by the Ministry of Health, the National Agency for Public Health and the World Health Organization. This year's campaign, with the theme "Act now: protect our present, secure our future!", brings to the forefront one of the most serious risks to public health: antimicrobial resistance. During the week, training for doctors and pharmacists, information sessions for patients, campaigns in schools and community activities dedicated to the correct use of antimicrobials will take place in medical institutions throughout the country.