The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Government Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai, organized an insightful and interactive program to mark Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week, under the esteemed guidance of Dean Dr. Dimple Padawe and Head of Department Dr. Abhilasha Yadav. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and interns across all departments, reflecting the institution’s collective commitment to promoting responsible antimicrobial practices.

The program commenced with an address by Dr. Sameer Khaire, who emphasized the critical importance of infection control in the dental setup. He highlighted key protocols, including sterilization practices, surface disinfection, use of personal protective equipment, and safe waste disposal. His session underscored how adherence to these measures plays a vital role in preventing cross-contamination and reducing infection risks within clinical environments.

Following this, Dr. Abhilasha Yadav delivered an informative address focusing on antibiotic resistance, a growing global health concern. She elaborated on the consequences of irrational antibiotic use, the impact of rising resistance patterns on patient care, and the essential principles of antimicrobial stewardship that every dental professional must adhere to. Her talk reinforced the need for judicious prescription practices to safeguard the efficacy of antibiotics for future generations.

The program concluded with a brief yet engaging discussion on hand hygiene, reiterating its significance as the simplest and most effective method for infection prevention. Techniques of proper handwashing and alcohol-based hand rub use were reviewed, encouraging students and interns to adopt stringent hygiene practices as part of their daily clinical routine.

The celebration of AMR Awareness Week successfully fostered awareness, responsibility, and proactive learning among participants. The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery continues its commitment to promoting evidence-based infection control and antimicrobial stewardship within the institution.