Aim is to reduce antibiotics and with it bacterial resistance
Veterinary surgeons have joined forces with doctors and dentists to produce a leaflet aimed at reducing the prescription of antibiotics.
The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE), the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME), and The Council of European Dentists (CED), say we each have a role to play in reducing the use of antibiotics, and with it the chances of bacteria becoming resistant to its effects.
Dr Christophe Buhot, president of FVE, said: "Although resistant microbes are tiny, they represent a huge threat to every living organism in the world by severely compromising their health.
Both humans and animals need efficient medicines to treat this kind of infections. A collaborative approach and our joint efforts would ensure that antibiotics keep their efficacy now and in the future.”
CPME President Dr Katrín Fjeldsted, said: "Losing the option to treat diseases with antibiotics would be a shocking setback to modern medicine. We must realise that everyone can make a personal contribution to ensuring that these valuable medicines stay effective, by taking some very simple steps.
"Veterinarians, doctors and dentists have come together with some ‘easy to follow’ advice which will help safeguarding our health and that of future generations.,
Dr Wolfgang Doneus, CED president, said: "According to experts and recent studies, appropriate use of antibiotics in the field of dentistry is important. Advantages and risks as well as the threat of side-effects and resistance building must be considered.
"Instant diagnosis tests should be developed and widely used in order to offer the best treatment to patients. Working together we will be able to achieve low prescribing rates and combat antimicrobial resistance”
To see the advice leaflet click here.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
