Antimicrobial Resistance: Practical Actions Veterinarians Can Apply in Daily Practice

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One Health approach Veterinary Public Health

Antimicrobial Resistance: Practical Actions Veterinarians Can Apply in Daily Practice

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasingly affecting treatment outcomes in animal health. The FAVA Strategy to Tackle AMR (2021–2025) highlights that veterinarians play a central role in reducing AMR through routine clinical and field-level decisions¹.

Prescribe Antimicrobials Only When Necessary

Unnecessary antimicrobial use is a key driver of resistance. Veterinarians are encouraged to ensure antimicrobials are prescribed only when a bacterial infection is likely, avoiding routine or preventive use without clinical justification.

Use the Right Antimicrobial, Correctly

Responsible selection of antimicrobials helps preserve their effectiveness. This includes choosing appropriate drugs, avoiding unnecessary use of critically important antimicrobials, and ensuring correct dose, duration, and route of administration.

Prevent Infections to Reduce Antibiotic Dependence

Infection prevention is a cornerstone of AMR control. Improving vaccination coverage, hygiene, biosecurity, housing, and nutrition can significantly reduce disease occurrence and the need for antimicrobials.

Support Decisions with Diagnostics

Where feasible, diagnostic testing should guide antimicrobial choice, particularly in recurrent or poorly responding cases. Diagnostic-led therapy reduces inappropriate use and improves treatment outcomes.

Adopt a Herd and Population Health Approach

Repeated antimicrobial use often reflects underlying management issues. Reviewing disease patterns at herd or flock level and addressing risk factors can reduce long-term antimicrobial reliance.

Monitor Antimicrobial Use and Communicate with Clients

Maintaining basic records of antimicrobial use supports responsible prescribing and surveillance efforts. Clear communication with animal owners about treatment decisions and prevention strategies further strengthens antimicrobial stewardship.

Conclusion

By integrating prudent prescribing, prevention, diagnostics, and monitoring into everyday practice, veterinarians can significantly reduce AMR risk while maintaining animal health, welfare, and productivity.

Reference

Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations (FAVA). FAVA Strategy to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) 2021–2025. Bangkok: FAVA; 2022. Available from: https://www.favamember.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/FAVA-Strategy-to-tackle_booklet_1.pdf