Abstract

The increase of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing problem for human and animal health. Antimicrobials are widely used in food-producing animals, posing a potential risk for selection of AMR bacteria and transmission from animals to humans as well as a reduction of the effectiveness of antimicrobials for treatment across species. A group of researchers at the Bristol Veterinary School (the AMR Force) have mobilised resources and inspired and enacted change in antimicrobial use on farms and in veterinary prescribing practices through a plurality of approaches. Initiatives include developing an antimicrobial stewardship policy with veterinarians and Waitrose dairy farmers, involving farmers in peer-to-peer learning approaches to share best practice in antimicrobial stewardship, training veterinarians (through BCVA ) and farmers across a number of veterinary practices on responsible antimicrobial use, and informing industry and legislative bodies (AHDB Dairy, Dairy UK, RUMA , CHaWG, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and Defra) on appropriate interventions to improve health and reduce antimicrobial use in the livestock sector.