BVA welcomes Wales’ plan to address antimicrobial resistance
“We welcome the plan’s emphasis on preventive measures and a commitment to championing responsible antibiotic stewardship".
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed a Welsh Government plan to address antimicrobial resistance.
Launched by environment minister Lesley Griffiths, the five-year plan encourages the responsible use of antimicrobials through preventative measures, including animal health planning and measuring farm-animal antibiotic usage data.
An AMR Delivery Group has been established to oversee the plan. BVA Welsh branch president Ifan Lloyd and council member Amelia Stevens will represent the veterinary profession in this group.
Mr Lloyd said: "We are very pleased to see Wales adopting a proactive and collaborative One Health approach to tackle the very real and serious global threat of antimicrobial resistance.
“We welcome the plan’s emphasis on preventive measures and a commitment to championing responsible antibiotic stewardship, keeping the veterinary profession at the heart of this approach.
“Vets in government and private practice have already made huge strides in stewarding responsible antimicrobial use in Wales, and as a member of the AMR Delivery Group, I look forward to continue working with colleagues across government and industry to achieve the goals laid down in this five-year vision.”
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. 
