Antimicrobials: a true ONE HEALTH issue Challenges and opportunities in the medical and veterinary field

This seminar is organised by the Federal of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) on 18th November 2011, which is the European Antibiotic Awareness Day. The topics of the seminar will cover the continuation of the debate about the challenges and possibilities which will arise in connection with the use of antimicrobial substances both in the medical and veterinary field. In the opinion of the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, the wide availability of strong antimicrobial substances is a fundamental part of the "One Health" strategy. However, in connection with the use of these substances on a wide scale, there is a serious risk of microbiological resistance developing, which could have serious effects on the health of both people and animals. To reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance it is essential for all interested parties to cooperate: doctors, veterinarians, animal owners, politicians, representatives of pharmaceutical companies etc. The aim of the seminar is therefore to increase awareness and to propagate the responsible use of antimicrobial substances.