NOAH (the National Office of Animal Health) warmly welcomes the government's announcement of a new five-year plan aimed at combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Dawn Howard, chief executive of NOAH, expressed the organization's commitment to collaborating with the government and all stakeholders in addressing the significant threat posed by AMR. She particularly praised the plan's emphasis on areas crucial to animal health.
"We are pleased to see the government's focus on promoting the responsible use of antibiotics and the development of new preventive measures such as animal vaccines," said Howard. "This aligns with NOAH's dedication to the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of animal, human and environmental health outcomes."
NOAH has been a vocal advocate for the responsible use of antibiotics in animals. The organization's Animal Medicines Best Practice (AMBP) training program, developed in partnership with Lantra, offers valuable online courses for farmers and veterinarians. These courses provide up-to-date information on antibiotic stewardship and emphasize the importance of optimizing farm biosecurity in collaboration with veterinarians to ensure antibiotics are used judiciously.
"The AMBP program plays a crucial role in helping farmers and veterinarians work together to maintain high animal health and welfare standards, while also promoting sustainable food production," added Howard.
The new government plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to tackle AMR, a global issue responsible for over a million deaths annually. Key components of the plan include reducing the use of antibiotics in animals and humans, developing new antimicrobials, enhancing AMR surveillance and investing in research and innovation.
NOAH members are actively engaged in the development of new preventive products such as vaccines, which play a vital role in protecting animals from diseases and reducing the reliance on antibiotics.
