New resources help explain resistance to clients
Speaking on European Antibiotic Awareness Day (EAAD) yesterday, the BVA reminded animal owners that the rules for preventing antibiotic resistance in humans also apply to animals.
Described by the chief medical officer as a "catastrophic threat" to humans, the issue of antibiotic resistance was raised at the G8 summit of global leaders earlier this year.
The BVA, however, used EAAD as an opportunity to highlight the need for the responsible use of antibiotics, or antimicrobials, in animals too.
Past president of the association, Peter Jones, commented: "The veterinary profession is acutely aware of the problem of antibiotic resistance and BVA has been working for many years to promote responsible use of these vital medicines.
"We all know that antibiotic resistance is a serious threat but animal owners need help to understand what that means in practice and what they can do to reduce the likelihood of resistance developing."
Whilst the BVA says resistance in humans is largely the result of antibiotic use in people, rather than veterinary use, animal healthcare is an important contributing factor when it comes to resistance.
Alongside the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), the BVA has launched a poster to help pet owners to understand how to protect antibiotics, using the message: "Don't Infect, Don't Expect, Do Protect".
The message is based on keeping animals healthy through good hygiene, preventative care, exercise and nutrition; understanding that not all illnesses require antibiotics; and always using antibiotics according to the instructions on the label.
Mr Jones commented: "Our simple message of Don’t Infect, Don’t Expect, Do Protect should help owners to follow good practice and ensure that antibiotics continue to work for all animals and humans."
Two client leaflets have also been produced to explain antibiotic resistance to pet owners and farmers.
These resources can be downloaded by veterinary practices, as well as members of the public. http://www.bva.co.uk/activity_and_advice/3601.aspx
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
