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UK pig sector halves antibiotic use in two years
Use of the Highest Priority Critically Important Antibiotics represented just 0.08 per cent of total antibiotic use in pigs in 2017.
Report highlights collaborative effort to address AMR

The UK pig industry has more than halved its antibiotic use in two years, according to a report published by the National Pig Association (NPA).

Figures published in the latest Pig Industry Antibiotic Stewardship Programme show the sector is on course to meet its target of reducing usage to 99mg/PCU by 2020.

The figures also show that usage of the Highest Priority Critically Important Antibiotics (cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and colistin) represented just 0.08 per cent of total antibiotic use in pigs in 2017.

“The progress made in the two years since has been nothing short of staggering,” said NPA senior policy advisor Georgina Crayford. “That is testament to the way all parts of the industry have come together to, first accept, then rise to the challenge – this is a truly collaborative effort. 
 
“Everybody understands that there is still much more to do. But after reading this report, it will become clear to everybody just how hard this industry is working to reduce and refine antibiotic use and improve overall pig health.”

The Pig Industry Antibiotic Stewardship Programme illustrates how producers, vets, feed and pharmaceutical companies are working with Government to address the problem of antibiotic resistance. Compiled with members of the Pig Health and Welfare Council, it shows how farmers and vets are working together to improve biosecurity and disease control on farms.

The report is available online for interested stakeholders and will be sent to MPs that have expressed an interest in the subject. 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.