NOAH Launches Antibiotics Conference Proceedings
The National Office of Animal Health published today the proceedings of its antibiotics conference. The conference last
December stressed that responsible use of all antibiotics
is vital: a message that has been truly taken to heart.
Setting up the event, NOAH offered a challenge to those interested in the use of antibiotics in food animals to come together and
discuss the proposal 'The benefits of using antibiotics
in food producing animals are greater than the risks'.
At the conference chaired by former president of the British Veterinary Association Professor Karl Linklater, six eminent
scientists presented papers on the risks and benefits of animal antibiotic use. Then the panel of morning speakers
joined celebrity chairman Peter Hobday for an extended 'Antibiotics Question Time', so the
issues could be discussed openly; myths could be examined and contrasted with facts. The
full text is available in the proceedings.
The benefits of antibiotic use were
identified, as were the hazards to their use. The strict controls on the licensing, sale
and use of animal antibiotics were highlighted
and seen as vital to reducing risk. But risks had not been quantified and those
responsible for the use of antibiotics should
not be complacent.
Prof Linklater said: 'We want to make absolutely sure that we continue to use these
products for the benefits of the animals under our care in a manner which does not
prejudice human health.'
'The use of antibiotics in farm animals has
not only had significant economic benefits for livestock units, but has also made enormous
contributions to animal welfare. This is one aspect we must not forget - the welfare of
animals,' he added.
15 June 1998
Notes for Editors
- For further information contact Roger Cook or Alison Glennon at NOAH, tel. +44 (0)181 367 3131
- The National Office of Animal Health was formed on 1 January 1986 to represent the UK
companies which research, develop, manufacture and market licensed animal health products.
The association now represents 53 companies which in
1997 accounted for around 95% of the £379 million UK animal health market, with
additional valuable exports.
- The Conference took place on Monday 1 December at the Cavendish Conference Centre, New
Cavendish St, London W1.
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