National Action Plans for Antimicrobial Resistance: What are they and how do they affect aquaculture?

Abstract

Antibiotics are essential medicines used in aquaculture, but their application can contribute to the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Effective mitigation of AMR requires concerted international effort, and countries are now expected to develop National Action Plans for Antimicrobial Resistance (NAPs) through a One Health approach. The aquaculture sector is included in NAPs, and this article seeks to raise awareness for NAPs particularly amongst aquatic health professionals and others concerned with aquatic animal health, describing what NAPs are and how they can affect the aquaculture sector. Heightened awareness of NAPs can help to prepare for the policy changes these documents drive, and may open up opportunities to contribute to and influence the content of subsequent versions.