EU Laws and Regulations as an Example of Rules for the Veterinary Application of Antimicrobials

The most detailed legislation on veterinary antimicrobials and their application for livestock has been adopted by the EU. The consequences of this legislation for daily practice and the effects on development and spreading of resistance are considerable. Monitoring remains an important part of the duties of the competent authorities. The legislation reflects the scientific insights of the time on how to prevent avoidable resistance. Preventing exposure of bacteria to non-lethal concentrations of antimicrobials is a main purpose. The regulations EU 2019/4/5/6 provide the member states with legal tools to enforce good practice and prudent use with regard to the veterinary application of antibiotics.