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Rise in vets with AMR concerns about cascade
“Where the cascade is not offering the most appropriate solution, BVA advises vets to use their clinical judgement and consider alternative prescribing options” – Anna Judson.
Almost one in 10 worried using cascade led to irresponsible prescribing.

There is growing concern among veterinary surgeons about antimicrobial resistance when following the cascade to make prescription decisions, the latest Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey has revealed.

The survey, conducted by the British Veterinary Association (BVA), showed that 86 per cent of respondents felt that using the cascade had led to them making at least one prescription decision which did not follow the principles of responsible antimicrobial prescribing. Fifty-eight per cent reported this happening either often or sometimes.

The number of concerned veterinary surgeons has grown since 2018, when the respective figures were 60 per cent and 43 per cent.

The survey also revealed that concerns when using the cascade were more common among veterinary surgeons treating non-traditional companion animals.

BVA has released the findings from the Autumn 2023 Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey as part of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (18-24 November).

BVA president Anna Judson said: “We know vets want to protect antimicrobials and keep them working against serious and potentially life-threatening infections.

“However, there’s an ongoing concern among our members, especially colleagues who treat minor species or exotics, that it can often be difficult to balance the appropriate use of antibiotics with the cascade. In some circumstances this leads to decisions that could exacerbate antimicrobial resistance.

“Where the cascade is not offering the most appropriate solution, BVA advises vets to use their clinical judgement and consider alternative prescribing options. This should be done on a case-by-case basis and after giving full consideration to potential risks and all available evidence.

“For any off-licence use of antimicrobials, vets can also help extend the body of evidence around antimicrobial safety and efficacy by publishing case studies and pharmacokinetic data where possible.

“We would also like to work with Veterinary Medicines Directorate to find ways to increase licensed options for minor species and exotics, to make it easier for vets to prescribe medications based on evidence-based clinical judgement while stewarding responsible antimicrobial use.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.