DISARM, an active network dedicated to finding innovative solutions for antibiotic resistance has launched new range of platforms this month (watch the introduction video here) inviting farmers, veterinarians, agricultural advisors and others to join discussions about farmed animal health and antibiotic usage, and encouraging them to attend the first official DISARM event in Brussels on 3rd December.

The DISARM Project brings people together from agricultural sectors across Europe to share knowledge and ideas, both online and in person. It aims to reduce the need for antibiotic treatments in livestock farming by keeping animals healthy, preventing disease and promoting appropriate, prudent use of antibiotic treatments.

New resources developed by the network include a dedicated DISARM website www.disarmproject.eu, which provides details on events and workshops, and the DISARM Community of Practice, a Facebook-based discussion group where members can ask questions and share their ideas and experiences, facilitating the sharing of knowledge and innovation between stakeholders and livestock sectors across Europe.

Discussion topics will include breeding, genetics and early life management for robust and resilient animals, biosecurity, housing, feed, water and additives and precision livestock technologies. The first official DISARM event, which will take place in Brussels on 3rd December, will present the project and include a discussion forum and Q&A session. Those unable to attend in person can participate online via livestream.

Details about this event, and how to keep updated on DISARM’s progress, is available on the DISARM website. Interested parties can also subscribe to a DISARM newsletter or follow the network’s activities on social media @projectdisarm.

Promoting responsible use of antibiotics in livestock farming

The International Dairy Federation (IDF) joined the DISARM project in 2019, to help promote responsible use of antibiotics in livestock farming by actively identifying, sharing and disseminating best practices.

IDF advocates prudent and responsible use of antimicrobial agents within the global dairy sector to ensure that they continue to be effective in curing diseases in animals while minimizing the risk of developing AMR.

“This is an important measure to prevent or reduce the transfer of resistant micro-organisms within animal populations, the environment and between animals and humans. “Our policy is to promote healthy dairy herds which can produce a safe and nutritious supply of milk for public consumption,” said Caroline Emond, IDF Director General. “We strongly encourage the sector’s further involvement in the DISARM project, particularly farmers and veterinarians who are interested in improving animal health and reducing antibiotic usage on-farm.”

Opportunities to join the project include volunteering as a case study farm, using the multiactor farm health team approach, producing videos that show good practices that have improved animal health and reduced antibiotic requirements on-farm, or hosting an event or workshop.

These are also a range of opportunities for livestock supply companies to showcase their innovations, research and development or demo farms. To find out more about DISARM or how to get involved, visit the DISARM website or contact by email.