One Health key to tackling antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is emerging as one of the most significant public health threats of the 21st century. It arises when medicines used to treat infections, such as antibiotics, lose their effectiveness. This silent but dangerous crisis not only jeopardises human health but also affects animals and the environment. Globally, experts now stress the importance of the One Health approach, which recognises the intricate links between human, animal and environmental well-being. With the increased use of antibiotics in food-producing animals—particularly in developing nations—the risk of resistant bacteria spreading via milk, meat and water has also grown.

At Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), Ludhiana, in one major study, we surveyed over 460 veterinarians across India to assess their knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning antibiotic use. While it was encouraging to find that most were aware of AMR, many continued to rely on personal experience rather than diagnostic testing when selecting antibiotics. Critically important antibiotics, including quinolones and third-generation cephalosporins, were commonly administered in animals, particularly for conditions like mastitis and reproductive disorders.

We uncovered several problematic practices through qualitative study, like over-the-counter sale of antibiotics without prescriptions, self-medication by farmers and limited awareness about antibiotic withdrawal periods.

To expand our understanding further, the GADVASU research team undertook a scoping review of 27 studies from 16 countries, evaluating the effect of farm biosecurity on antimicrobial use (AMU) in livestock. The review found that 51.8 per cent of studies showed a clear link between better biosecurity and reduced AMU, while 18.5 per cent highlighted that improved farm management practices also helped lower antibiotic use. Based on these findings, the review recommends promoting robust biosecurity measures.

We urgently need stronger regulations to prevent the sale of veterinary antibiotics without prescription.

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