The ever growing problems related to anthelmintic resistance in horses and other animals has lead to global discussion about regulations and enforcement.
Veterinarians: Concerns about anthelmintic resistance
A major concern regarding the growing problem of anthelmintic resistance in horses and other animals is the lack of control in distribution and usage.
The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) recently met and gave their full attention to the emerging problems in anthelmintic resistance. During the course of their conference they developed 5 recommendations and recommended that governing bodies act on their recommendations immediately to ensure the regulations regarding anthelmintics be strengthened and that they are enforced.
Among the Veterinarians' major concerns related to the growing problem of anthelmintic resistance is the fact that prescriptions are not required for some anthelmintics in some regions. In addition, they called for greater control in the distributions and use of anthelmintic products including the cheaper generic products that might lead to overuse.
FVE recommendations for anthelmintic use:
- All anthelmintic products for food producing animals shall be only available upon veterinary prescription, so that their use is conditional on appropriate veterinary advice; FVE calls EU legislators to make this change in the revision of Directive 2001/82/EC
- Veterinarians have a role in promoting and monitoring of resistance and responsible use of anthelmintic products by horse and livestock owners;
- Veterinarians and farmers need to work out an integrated worm control program based on targeted strategic treatments (TST) in the context of animal health plans instead of mass treatments.
- Alternatives to anthelmintic products should be promoted e.g. vaccines.
- More research is needed to allow more easy detection systems of anthelmintic resistance