Organisation releases new guidelines for doctors, dentists and veterinary surgeons
The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) are urging doctors, dentists and veterinary surgeons to keep on fighting against the alarming rise of antibiotic resistance in Europe.
Antibiotic resistance has increased so much in the past few years that it now constitutes a serious risk to the health of the public. The FVE say that the lack of effectiveness of existing antibiotics combined with a lack of new antibiotic treatments raises serious concerns and demands a joint response.
In this context, primary describers such as doctors, dentists and veterinary surgeons, can play a crucial role. Being in direct contact with patients on a daily basis, they are best placed to advise on patients' need for antibiotics.
In order to support doctors, dentists and veterinarians in their daily practice, the FVE has drawn together new guidelines detailing seven simple recommendations that primary prescribers can follow.
The guidelines urge medical professionals to use antimicrobials only when really necessary and to ensure that examination and diagnoss always precede a prescription.
The guidelines also encourage vets, dentists and doctors to report any adverse effects that they might sispect are caused by antimicrobials.
FVE President, Dr. Christophe Buhot said: "Veterinarians together with the other health professions are the gatekeepers of the public health. This is why it is so important to ensure that all of us doctors, dentists and veterinarians are equally committed to this goal and promote the same recommendations”
The Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME) President, Dr Katrín Fjeldsted, added: “It is crucial that healthcare professionals join forces to combat antimicrobial resistance. The joint recommendations issued today are part of this collaborative exercise and we will continue to closely work together to promote prudent use of antibiotics.”
Council of European Dentists President, Dr Wolfgang Doneus, commented: “Antibiotics need to be responsibly prescribed, correctly used and the outcomes monitored. We are counting on our Colleagues to help in making sure that antibiotics stay effective and to discuss the risks of self-medication with our patients”.
To download the new guidelines visit: http://www.fve.org/veterinary/pdf/medicines/AMR%20leaflets/ONE%20HEALTH_HP/FVE_sheet_vet_doctor_dentist_EN.pdf
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. 
