Working towards regulatory convergence and harmonisation of registration of veterinary products for prudent and responsible use

Veterinary products are indispensable tools for any effective animal health and welfare. Control of threats to the animal health and welfare cannot be achieved without the judicious use of drugs, vaccines and other veterinary products.

Regulations on veterinary medicines and biologicals under veterinary legislation is important to guide the authorisation, manufacturing, distribution and use of veterinary products. Article 3.4.11. of the Chapter on Veterinary legislation offers guidance for assuring the quality of veterinary medicines and biologicals and minimising the risk to human, animal and environmental health associated with their use.

WOAH works closely with The International Cooperation on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products (VICH). VICH’s role is to harmonise technical requirements for data necessary for the marketing authorisation veterinary medicinal products.

WOAH trains national focal points for veterinary products in line with their responsibilities in the standard-setting process and to enhance compliance of their countries with WOAH international standards.

WOAH develops international standards and guidelines and recommendations for veterinary products, mainly vaccines for the control of OIE listed diseases (Terrestrial Manual) and the responsible and prudent use of antimicrobials (Terrestrial Code).

Likewise the Aquatic Animal Health Code covers prudent use of antimicrobials in aquatic animals in its Section 6.