How disease control and animal health services can impact antimicrobial resistance. A retrospective country case study of Sweden

Abstract

Data and experiences in Sweden show that it is possible to combine high productivity in animal production with the restricted use of antibiotics. The major key factors that explain Sweden’s success in preventing AMR are: Swedish veterinary practitioners were aware of the risk of AMR as early as the 1950s, and the need for prudent use of antibiotics was already being discussed in the 1960s. Early establishment of health services and health controls to prevent, control and, when possible, eradicate endemic diseases reduced the need for antibiotics. Access to data on antibiotic sales and AMR made it possible to focus on areas of concern. State veterinary leadership provided legal structures and strategies for cooperation between stakeholders and facilitated the establishment of coordinated animal health services that are industry-led, but supported by the State.

Published in

OIE News
2021, number: April 2021
Publisher: OIE

SLU Authors

• Wierup, Martin

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Wahlström, Helene

  • National Veterinary Institute (SVA)

UKÄ Subject classification

Clinical Science

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.20506/bull.2021.NF.3167

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/113650