Antimicrobial Usage in Animal Production Systems

Abstract

Antimicrobial usage (AMU) in human and veterinary medicine is the single-most important factor for the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global public health threat. Although AMR development is a natural process, misuse or overuse of antimicrobials can speed up the process. Surveillance of AMU in animal and agricultural system is the basis for understanding and combating AMR, as nonhuman AMU leads to the development of resistant bacteria in the case of drugs used by humans. Among various indications, mastitis is one of the most common reasons for AMU in dairy animals. However, the pattern of AMU and their influencing factors varies among the countries, species, breeds, production systems, drugs, and other factors. Therefore, it is very important to understand the influencing factors for better implementation of policies to regulate AMU animal production systems. Several methods have been explored in animal production systems for the collection of AMU data. However, the lack of harmonized quantification methods is the major limiting factor encountered at present. Under the changing livestock production conditions from small holder, less intensive to highly intensive farming systems, identification of critical factors, and suitable metrics are important to make an evidence-based policy decision for regulation of antimicrobial usage. Several countries have taken measures to reduce AMU in food animal production system. The European Union has done it through regulations on veterinary medicines and medicated feed. Reduction and replacement of antimicrobials, along with redefined animal husbandry practices through preventive approaches, are important measures to reduce AMU in animal production systems.