As part of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week activities in 2020, the OIE regional representation organised a series of webinars to highlight antimicrobial use (AMU) in animals. The event for companion animals was held on Wednesday 18th November and was attended by 92 participants from across Asia and the Pacific region.
Overuse and misuse of antimicrobials in human, animal and plant sectors has dramatically accelerated the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). One means of acting against AMR development is to use antimicrobials in a responsible and prudent manner. Despite close contact between people and their pets, with the potential risk of cross-transfer of resistant microbes, regulations on antimicrobial use (AMU) in companion animals and recommendations for responsible and prudent use are lacking in many countries. Increased awareness of responsible and prudent use of antimicrobials in this group of animals will be of great benefit in action against AMR.
At recent OIE virtual meetings to discuss AMR in Asia and the Pacific, participants identified AMU as a key topic for future training from the OIE. Thus, as part of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week in 2020, the OIE Regional Representation for Asia and the Pacific organised a series of webinars to highlight antimicrobial use (AMU) in animals. The event for companion animals was held on Wednesday 18th November and was open to participants from across Asia and the Pacific region.
The webinar informed stakeholders in the companion animal veterinary field on OIE guidelines and tools relating to AMU. Summary reports from participating Members broadened understanding of regulation in companion animals in Asia and the Pacific region. Participants shared experiences from the region and together explored approaches to improve responsible and prudent AMU in companion animals.
