Animal antibiotic sales down
Total sales of veterinary and horticultural antibiotics in New Zealand have decreased for a fifth year in a row, dropping by 23% in 2022.
The campaign aims to increase awareness of global antibiotic resistance by encouraging best practices among health, public and agricultural sectors to avoid the further emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance.
Agcarm is an industry association for companies which deal in products which promote animal and crop health. It says it supports the responsible use of antibiotics to protect the health and wellbeing of animals and people.
Agcarm members are working alongside veterinarians, government and other stakeholders to manage antibiotic resistance issues that may occur in New Zealand. This includes coordinating surveillance to detect resistance, along with research to identify where and when it is most likely to occur.
Agcarm chief executive, Mark Ross says, "Progress on responsible use of antibiotics in veterinary medicine requires a combined effort among veterinarians, animal owners and government as well as investments in research and monitoring."
To reduce reliance on antibiotics, animal health manufacturers are committed to researching and developing new medicines, vaccines and new strategies to help veterinary professionals identify and treat illness in animals. They also help veterinarians and farmers protect the health and wellness of livestock animals, resulting in safe food.
"We are fortunate that our animal health manufacturers are committed to supporting our vets and farmers to use antibiotic medicines responsibly and properly.
"Antibiotics should be part of a broader approach to disease management. This includes good animal husbandry, biosecurity and taking preventative measures, such as using vaccinations," adds Ross.
