Summer 2023

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest threats to society, human and animal health, and economic prosperity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, antibiotic-resistant bacteria causes at least 2.8 million infections and 35,000 deaths in the United States every year. Many more die from complications of an antibiotic-resistant infection. These drug-resistant “superbugs” can also harm the ecosystem and cost multibillions annually in medical costs and economic losses. The National Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Education (NIAMRRE) in the College of Veterinary Medicine is working to combat this growing public health threat. “Antimicrobial resistance is a global priority of the CDC,” said Dr. Paul Plummer, NIAMRRE executive director. “It touches each of us in our daily lives. This institute provides a great resource for the entire country as we work to build strong, collaborative research and educational programs to mitigate this risk.”

Don’t be surprised if a new face greets you and your companion animal on your next scheduled visit to the Hixson-Lied Small Animal Hospital. Summer is the time when interns and residents in the small animal hospital complete their training programs and move onto their professional careers. These “House Officer” programs provide in-depth training in the various areas of veterinary specialty practice. “Our programs strive to prepare trainees for active careers in academia or specialty practice and for certification by the appropriate specialty college,” said Dr. Dan Grooms, the Dr. Stephen G. Juelsgaard Dean of Veterinary Medicine.