The main provisions of the new rules for the use of antimicrobial veterinary medicines:
- Only registered drugs are allowed to be used.
- Prohibition on expired drugs - antimicrobial drugs with expired shelf life cannot be used.
- Controlled use - antibiotics can only be used if there is an established diagnosis and microbiological confirmation of the bacterial nature of the disease.
- Prohibition on prophylactic use - antibiotics may not be used for the prevention of disease.
- Restrictions on metaphylaxis - only possible in case of high risk of infection and in the absence of alternatives.
- Priority is given to narrow-spectrum drugs.
- Strict control over group therapy - the introduction of drugs into feed or water should be carried out under strict supervision.
- Compliance with drug withdrawal deadlines - it is important to ensure the safety of animal products.
The restrictions are aimed at reducing the risk of bacterial resistance to antibiotics, which is a global problem. An important component is to increase the responsibility of veterinarians and farmers in the use of antimicrobials.
These and other measures described in the Guidelines for the Rational Use of Antimicrobial Veterinary Medicinal Products in Pig Production will help maintain animal health and improve the quality and safety of livestock products.
The Association of Ukrainian Pig Breeders is a non-profit, voluntary organisation founded by domestic pork producers. The main goals of the association are to represent and protect the rights and interests of the association's farms, promote the development and implementation of new technologies for efficient pork production, expand sales markets, and protect the domestic market.
