174 Opinions of veterinarians on antimicrobial use in farm animals in Flanders and the Netherlands (Research paper – Postma, 2016)
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Prudent use AB \ Veterinarian; AMU reduction strategies
Species targeted: Pigs; Poultry; Dairy; Beef; Sheep; Other;
Age: Young; Adult;
Summary:
This study aimed to assess opinions of veterinarians from the Netherlands and Flanders regarding antimicrobial use and resistance issues in farm animals. A survey was answered by 174 and 437 veterinarians from Flanders and the Netherlands, respectively. The most important cause for high antimicrobial use in farm animals was poor climate conditions. Flemish veterinarians also regarded insufficient biosecurity measures and farmers’ mentality as important factors, while the Dutch ranked insufficient immunity of young animals and economic considerations of farmers as major causes. Most Dutch vets supported the policy to halve veterinary antimicrobial use, while only about 33% of Flemish vets supported this policy. Improvements in housing and climate conditions, biosecurity measures and control of specific infectious diseases were considered important in reducing antimicrobial use. To reduce antimicrobial use in farm animals, some approaches might be applicable in both countries, but cultural, political and societal differences should also be considered.
Where to find the original material: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27313178; https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.103618
Country: BE; NL