AMR: Calls for collaboration without ‘blame culture’
“Antimicrobial resistance is a shared problem that must be addressed by medical, veterinary and environmental professionals collaboratively..."
A one health approach without ‘blame culture’ is the key to tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the British Veterinary Association (BVA) has said in a new position statement.
The position consolidates and expands upon the BVA’s existing AMR policies. It makes 15 recommendations on responsible antimicrobial stewardship for vets, farmers and the government.
BVA president Simon Doherty said: “Antimicrobial resistance is a shared problem that must be addressed by medical, veterinary and environmental professionals collaboratively and not subject to a culture of blame.”
The updated position reiterates that vets should continue to be guided by the seven principles of antimicrobial use, which includes avoiding inappropriate use, monitoring antimicrobial sensitivity, working with clients to avoid the need for antimicrobials (e.g. through preventative measures) and recording and justifying any deviation from protocols.
BVA also released a new seven point plan poster for vets to display in practice.
The position also reiterates that critically important antibiotics should remain available for veterinary use, but vets should restrict the use of the highest priority CIAs, using them only as a last resort.
Mr Doherty added: “A collaborative approach to AMR, underpinned by a commitment from each of us within the veterinary profession to maintain the highest standards of stewardship in using antimicrobials, especially Critically Important Antibiotics, is the only way we can preserve these essential medicines for both humans and animals in the future.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
