UK study into AMR link between animals and humans launched

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has announced the launch of the world’s first surveillance programme designed to measure antibiotic resistance in healthy dogs and cats across the UK.

Related Article: Beyond the scales: reframing eating disorder recognition in primary care

The four-year study, led by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), aims to address a gap identified in current antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance, which has previously focused only on animals with clinical illnesses.

Pet owners and veterinary practices across the country will contribute by submitting faecal samples from dogs and cats. The collected data will then be used to help researchers better understand how antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread between animals and humans.

Abi Seager, chief executive of the VMD, expressed her pride at launching the ‘groundbreaking’ surveillance project.

Related Article: Sharp rise in diabetes cases prompts call for better postnatal support

She added: ‘A recent report published by the Public Accounts Committee on AMR highlighted the need to address surveillance gaps in animals, and we are pleased the VMD is already driving progress in this area.’

Last year, the UK Government developed a five-year AMR National Action Plan amid growing concern over antibiotic resistance.

Related Article: Novo Nordisk launch new 7.2mg single-dose Wegovy pen

Earlier this year, a survey by the National Pharmacy Association revealed community pharmacies are being asked for unnecessary antibiotics 'at least once a day'.