An integrated surveillance network for antimicrobial resistance, India

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Microbiology
• Public Health
• One Health

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to global health.
• Integrated surveillance networks are essential for monitoring and controlling AMR.
• Veterinary laboratories play a critical role in AMR surveillance within the animal health sector.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the readiness of Indian veterinary laboratories for an integrated AMR surveillance network.
• To identify specific deficiencies hindering participation in such a network.
• To develop strategies for addressing identified gaps and enhancing laboratory capacity.

Main Methods:

• Collaboration between the Indian Council of Medical Research and Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
• Assessment of eight representative veterinary microbiology laboratories using a standardized tool.
• Identification of gaps and development of an action plan in consultation with participating labs.

Main Results:

• Key gaps identified include lack of dedicated AMR surveillance funding, absence of standard antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) guidelines, shortage of reference strains, and inadequate data-sharing mechanisms.
• A veterinary standard operating procedure for AST was developed.
• Validation exercises and capacity-building workshops were conducted to address implementation challenges.

Conclusions:

• Accurate, quality-controlled testing is fundamental for successful AMR surveillance networks.
• Overcoming challenges requires a comprehensive plan for improving laboratory capacity across human, veterinary, and environmental sectors, backed by adequate funding.
• The study offers valuable insights for other low- and middle-income countries aiming to establish similar surveillance networks.