ENOVAT: the European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]

The global antimicrobial resistance crisis has been the driver of several international strategies on antimicrobial stewardship. For their implementation at the field level, the veterinary sector encounters several specific challenges and in particular: (i) a shortage of experts in key disciplines related to antimicrobial stewardship, (ii) a lack of evidence-based antimicrobial treatment guidelines, and (iii) inferior diagnostic tests available compared to human medicine. The present white paper describes how the COST Action ENOVAT (the European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment, CA18217), comprising 332 persons from 51 countries, worked towards solutions to these challenges. Initially, surveys were conducted to explore the present state in Europe in terms of existing antimicrobial use guidelines and microbiology practices performed. Concurrently, various research activities were launched to optimize diagnostics, including development of epidemiological cut-offs, clinical breakpoints and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry interpretive criteria. Also, guidelines drafting groups working towards evidence-based antimicrobial treatment guidelines for six conditions in food-producing and companion animals were established. The processes and outcomes, also in terms of capacity building, are summarized in this white paper where emphasis is placed on sustainability of the activities. Although several ENOVAT initiatives and spin-off projects will continue beyond the Action, we recommend that a new European veterinary research agenda is launched focusing on research and funding leading to long-term impacts on veterinary antimicrobial use.