Two day conference explores issues around drug resistance in livestock

Scotland continued to cement its reputation as a world leader in animal health at a conference to tackle the problem of drug resistance and livestock on 5-6 July 2012.

Drug Resistance: Turning the tide on microbial and parasite resistance in livestock was a two-day event organised by Moredun and the National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) to examine the use of smart strategies to deal with prevalent livestock diseases whilst mitigating against the growing problems of antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance.

Day one of the conference began by highlighting the European experience and the targeted reductions of antimicrobial use implemented in the Netherlands. The speakers that followed then focused on how research can develop better diagnostics, systems design and vaccines which can reduce interventions on farm. The role of farm vets in driving proactive monitoring and health planning was also examined.

Day two was dedicated to parasite control and the challenges of developing drug resistance in both endo and ecto parasites. A panel of international speakers and delgates explored the role of quarantine and how new anthelminthics, targeted therapy and emerging vaccine technology can contribute to sustainable control.

Breakout sessions were held on the afternoon of each day to collate the opinions and thoughts of the 170 delegates who travelled from around Europe to attend and contribute to the discussion. It is hoped that conclusions from these breakout sessions could be used to help develop future priorities and approaches that could be implemented at farm level

For further information about this event, copies of the presentations and reports from the breakout sessions can be found at www.moredun.org.uk/drug-resistance-event

Published on 25 July 2012 in Sustainability and Communities , Ecosystems and biodiversity , Food, health and wellbeing