Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest threats to global health. Every 3 November, One Health Day highlights the close connection between human, animal, and environmental health. This integrated approach, promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO), is essential to curb the spread of resistant bacteria and ensure effective treatments in the future.
More than 60% of human infectious diseases originate from animals, underscoring the importance of applying One Health strategies in key sectors such as livestock production.
From 18 to 24 November, the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week reinforces the need for action against this “silent pandemic,” particularly in settings where antibiotic use is common, such as dairy cattle farming.
BOVIRAM: An Innovative Project to Detect Antimicrobial Resistance in Dairy Cattle in the Balearic Islands
In this context, Genosalut Balears leads the BOVIRAM project, focused on the development of services and products for detecting antimicrobial resistance in dairy cattle herds.
The project is carried out in collaboration with OCCS Menorca, a reference centre in veterinary medicine and dairy production in the Balearic Islands.
BOVIRAM’s main goal is to implement a rapid and accurate molecular methodology to identify antimicrobial resistance in bovine milk samples. This will improve herd health management, reduce unnecessary antibiotic use, and contribute to sustainable dairy production.
Molecular Diagnostic Technologies for Identifying Antimicrobial Resistance
In its initial phase, BOVIRAM focuses on:
– Collecting and analysing data from dairy herds.
– Microbiological characterisation of milk samples.
– Developing sequencing protocols to identify antimicrobial resistance genes.
By integrating veterinary expertise with advanced molecular diagnostics, the project aims to establish a reliable and scalable system for real-time detection of antimicrobial resistance.
A Strategic Collaboration to Improve Animal Health and Food Safety
The partnership between Genosalut Balears, a leader in molecular diagnostics, and OCCS Menorca, with extensive experience in animal health, is essential for ensuring accurate interpretation of the results.
This joint effort will:
– Support better clinical and veterinary decision-making.
– Strengthen food safety in the dairy sector.
– Promote responsible use of antimicrobials in cattle farming.
A One Health Commitment Against Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance is a global challenge requiring solutions rooted in research, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration.
At Genosalut Balears, we firmly support the One Health approach as the most effective way to protect the health of people, animals, and the environment.
Projects like BOVIRAM demonstrate how applied science can generate practical tools to combat AMR and advance towards safe, sustainable livestock production.
📍 Project funded by the European Union, the Government of Spain and the Government of the Balearic Islands through European funds and the Illes Balears Sostenibles programme.
🤝 In collaboration with OCCS Menorca (occs.cat/es)
