The European Commission's 'One Health' approach to antimicrobial resistance addresses the human and veterinary sectors together in a holistic and coordinated manner. Contributing to this initiative, EMA, EFSA and ECDC published the 4th JIACRA report which presents data collected by the three agencies between 2019 and 2021. For the first time, this report includes a multi-agency analysis of trends in antimicrobial use and resistance in E. coli for both humans and animals.
We are continuously working with the EU regulatory network and other responsible authorities for the collection of antimicrobial sales and use data, ensuring that the ESVAC project legacy is carried forward in the new legislative obligations. By providing science-based evidence, policymakers are empowered to drive national strategies to limit or prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance.
In this context, significant collaborative efforts have been made by Member States and the Agency to improve the quality of the UPD product data that is used in the ASU Platform. This effort will be pivotal in ensuring that the data of this first reporting year under Regulation (EU) 2019/6 can be analysed and published in 2025.
The service is also engaging with veterinary healthcare professionals, such as the recent webinar organised in collaboration with FVE, on restrictions for the use of certain antimicrobials in animals. Veterinarians, as the first line of defence against emerging diseases, play a crucial role in mitigating the development of antimicrobial resistance.
The Veterinary Antimicrobial Monitoring and Resistance Service looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the European Commission, the EU Regulatory Network, and sister agencies on these important issues over the next few years.
Zoltan Kunsagi
Head of Veterinary Antimicrobial Monitoring and Resistance Service
