Antimicrobial resistance surveillance

A key focus of our laboratory data programme is antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance, delivered through the reporting and analysis of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) results.

This work is carried out in collaboration with private veterinary diagnostic laboratories across the UK. Together, we are working to harmonise methodologies for bacterial culture, AST, and AMR screening, ensuring greater consistency and reliability in data generation.

We are working towards establishing harmonised and standardised approaches to AMR surveillance in veterinary medicine, strengthening the quality and comparability of data across laboratories. It will also support alignment of UK AMR surveillance with methodologies proposed by the newly formed European AMR Surveillance Network in veterinary medicine (EARS-Vet). Many of our core team members here at EVSNET are workgroup members of EARS-Vet.

By improving consistency and coordination, this initiative will enhance our ability to monitor resistance trends, inform antimicrobial stewardship, and support efforts to protect both animal and public health.

Benefits to collaborating laboratories

Collaborating laboratories benefit from a range of services designed to support quality, insight, and research readiness.

Interactive dashboards

Access dynamic dashboard displays of your antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) results, enabling you to visualise trends, and gain valuable insights from your data.

Microbiology proficiency testing

Participate in microbiology proficiency testing at no cost, with support from our expert veterinary microbiology team. You will receive tailored, bespoke reports to help assess performance and support continuous quality improvement.

Access to your analysed data 

Receive your data back in analysed, standardised, and research-ready formats, supporting internal review, audit, and collaborative research opportunities.

Contribute to national surveillance

Support national antimicrobial resistance surveillance efforts through submission of your laboratory data, helping to inform veterinary guidelines and stewardship initiatives.