Health authorities will launch a nationwide campaign to prevent antibiotics abuse and ensuing antibiotic tolerance.

Ahead of World Antibiotic Awareness Week, the Health and Welfare Ministry said Thursday it will set up a campaign headquarters for the proper use of antibiotics during a ceremony Monday. 

The campaign will raise awareness on the concern of antibiotic resistance and promote ways for their proper usage.

The World Health Organization designates the third week of November as Antibiotic Awareness Week and advises countries to carry out campaigns on preventing antibiotic tolerance.

According to a U.K. government report released in May, failing to respond to such tolerance may result in ten million people worldwide losing their lives due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria each year come 2050.

South Korea drafted a five-year plan on the issue in August and has vowed to lower the use of antibiotics to a level similar to the OECD average in five years.

The country also aims to reduce by half unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions for the common cold in five years.