APHIS Seeks Partners to Develop Antimicrobial Resistance Dashboards to Protect Animal and Public Health

March 20, 2024 — 

For the second year, the U.S Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is inviting partners to collaborate on the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) dashboards. These dashboards provide stakeholders with critical data to address AMR, a growing global health threat. APHIS will provide up to $3 million dollars for these efforts in 2024.

"Antimicrobial resistance is a serious challenge that affects both animal and public health," said Mike Watson, APHIS Administrator. "By continuing to develop innovative AMR dashboards, we can better understand AMR trends and determine strategies to protect the health of animals and people."

AMR occurs when bacteria and other microbes develop resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs, making these drugs less effective or ineffective at treating infections. This can have serious consequences for both animal and human health.

APHIS is seeking partners with expertise in AMR data analysis, dashboard development, and stakeholder engagement. Eligible partners include state departments of agriculture; Tribal entities; offices of state animal health officials; nonprofits; institutions of higher education; livestock, poultry, or aquaculture producer organizations; and veterinary organizations.

"We are committed to working with our partners to confront the challenge of AMR," said Watson. "Together, we can make a significant impact in protecting animal and public health."

AMR dashboards will provide insights into AMR trends in domesticated animals, ensuring informed decision-making and targeted interventions. This collaborative effort will harness the power of data to inform strategies for responsible antimicrobial use and monitor the emergence of resistant bacteria.

APHIS is actively engaged in activities to better understand AMR patterns and develop effective mitigation strategies. The agency collaborates with a diverse network of partners, including state and federal agencies, Tribal entities, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders, to tackle the AMR challenge collectively.

Contributing to this critical effort through collaboration offers a unique opportunity to advance the fight against AMR and directly impact animal and public health.

The funding opportunity announcement, including application instructions and additional information, is available on the APHIS website. Applicants can also find information on the ezFedGrants website or Grants.gov by searching AMR, Antimicrobial Resistance, or Funding Opportunity Number USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-24-0010.

Interested partners are encouraged to visit our webpage to learn more about this collaborative research opportunity. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against AMR.

[Source: USDA 19 March 2024]