Antimicrobial resistance in animal production: Warning in the context of one health

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance has been aggravating over the last years, one of the primary reasons being the incorrect usage of antibiotics in animal production. Such problematic is inserted among the primary causes of mortality and will cause an enormous monetary loss if suggested measures are not adopted by competent public agencies. Usage of antimicrobials is controversial, happening in therapeutic and nontherapeutic forms in poultry, swine and livestock production, especially in developing countries. It all contributes to the rise of superbugs unrestricted to animals, since these can scatter through several ways towards the environment and human beings, which indicates the interdependence between humans, animals and the environment. Furthermore, antimicrobial resistance interferes with modern pharmaceuticals efficiency and in the engagement against infectious diseases. Thus, an one health approach in global and regional scale is required in the creation of antimicrobial resistance combat measures. Therefore, it is the great responsibility of farmers and veterinarians to raise awareness and seek correct usage of antimicrobial agents, as well as looking for alternatives for the usage of those pharmaceuticals.