Antibiotics in chickens may only be used after examination, diagnosis and prescription by a veterinary doctor. All veterinarians working for the poultry system are experienced and qualified to assess the health condition of the animals under their responsibility, to diagnose and prescribe the necessary treatment in the same way as doctors do for people. In the poultry sector, however, with improved prevention strategies, vaccination plans and the adoption of husbandry techniques that are increasingly respectful of the health and welfare of farmed animals, the use of antibiotics has been progressively reduced since 10 years ago. In many European countries, the percentage reduction, when compared to the previous decade, exceeds 90%.
