This week marks World Antimicrobial (AMR) Awareness Week, a global campaign to raise awareness and understanding of AMR and promote best practices among One Health stakeholders to reduce the emergence and spread of drug-resistant infections.
Animal Medicines Australia recently welcomed the United Nations Political Declaration on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and the essential leadership it provides for global action against AMR.
On agriculture and animal health, the declaration has commitments to, by 2030, meaningfully reduce the quantity of antimicrobials used globally in the agri-food systems by prioritising and funding the implementation of measures to prevent and control infections and ensuring prudent, responsible and evidence-based use of antimicrobials.
Animal Medicines Australia Executive Director, Mr Ben Stapley said, “The use of antimicrobials in agriculture and food production has significantly contributed to improved animal welfare and safer production systems. The responsible use of antibiotics is crucial to ensuring these vital medicines remain effective into the future.
“Antimicrobials are essential tools necessary for safe, sustainable and ethical livestock industries. Raising awareness around the responsible use of these medicines will help preserve effective antimicrobials for when they are truly needed”. said Mr. Stapley.
A report developed by global animal health organisation HealthforAnimals, in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation – ‘How Prevention Can Reduce the Need for Antibiotics’ provides valuable guidance for improving disease prevention, while investment in animal health systems and support for innovation can provide the necessary tools and infrastructure to achieve it. This work can help achieve global AMR goals and improve the lives of animals and humans in the years to come.
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