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Antibiotics
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Antibiotics Use in Farms
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Antibiotics Use in Farms

A special issue of Antibiotics (ISSN 2079-6382). This special issue belongs to the section "Antibiotics in Animal Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 July 2023) | Viewed by 33254

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Linda Bester

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
2. Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
Interests: bacteria epidemiology; molecular surveillance of bacteria; one-health genomics; zoonotic pathogens; human health risk
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Centuries ago, scientists noticed resemblances in disease progression between animals and humans. The modus operandi up until that moment had been to practice medicine on animals separately from humans as if these were confined microbiological spaces, and the acknowledgement of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms set in motion a global movement in antibiotic stewardship, conceding the linked and articulated space of animals, humans, and the environment. There is an abundance of reports on the after-effects of antibiotic strategies adopted for farming systems by different countries. However, it is reasonable to conclude that the implementation and sustainability of these strategies bring about challenges, and confining antibiotic resistance within territory borders, an even more significant challenge. This Special Issue invites manuscript submissions to enlighten the scientific community on the latest surveillance and epidemiological data from farm production systems (animal and plant) on clinically important pathogens of risk acquiring resistance. This also includes farming communities’ attitude toward antibiotic usage several years after implementing governmental strategies. In addition, innovative strategies to decrease/overcome antibiotics in farming systems are encouraged, such as unconventional treatment options, non-antibiotic approaches, vaccines (including DNA and mRNA vaccines), probiotics, and genetic modification technologies. This is also an extended invitation to novel biosecurity strategies to reduce the intervention of antibiotics.

Dr. Linda Bester
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • non-antibiotic
  • alternative (to antibiotics) therapeutic options
  • alternative production strategies
  • vaccines
  • farm sourced surveillance of antibiotic resistance
  • farmers attitude

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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20 pages, 1428 KiB  
Article
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Antibiotic Use and Resistance among Poultry Farmers in Nepal
by Deepak Subedi, Sumit Jyoti, Bhima Thapa, Sanjay Paudel, Prajjwal Shrestha, Deepak Sapkota, Bhuwan Raj Bhatt, Hari Adhikari, Uddab Poudel, Anil Gautam, Rojina Nepal and Ahmad I. Al-Mustapha
Antibiotics 2023, 12(9), 1369; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12091369 - 25 Aug 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2169
Abstract
The abuse and misuse of antibiotics is one of the main drivers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Globally, AMR in food-producing animals is a significant public health concern. This study, therefore, assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic usage (AMU) and AMR [...] Read more.
The abuse and misuse of antibiotics is one of the main drivers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Globally, AMR in food-producing animals is a significant public health concern. This study, therefore, assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic usage (AMU) and AMR among poultry farmers in Nepal. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 605 poultry farmers from six districts of Nepal from May to June 2022 to assess the status of knowledge, attitude, as well as practices toward prudent antibiotic usage (AMU) and AMR. The majority of the participants in our study were from the Chitwan district (31.6%; n = 191/605), aged 30–44 (54.2%; n = 328/605), males (70.4%; n = 426/605), and farmers with a higher secondary (28.76%; n = 174/605) level of education. The tetracyclines (28%, n = 228/828), aminoglycosides (23%, n = 188/828), and fluoroquinolones (15%, n = 126/828) were the most used antibiotics classes among poultry farmers. Although 87.8% (n = 531/605) of poultry farmers used antibiotics, 49.8% (n = 301/605) of them were aware of AMR, and 55.7% (n = 337/605) knew that the misuse of antimicrobials could affect human and environmental health. There were significant differences in the knowledge, attitude, and practices toward prudent AMU and AMR among farmers who reared different birds. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice score of the respondents were 7.81 ± 3.26, 5.8 ± 2.32, and 7.59 ± 3.38 when measured on a scale of 12, 10, and 15, respectively. Based on a cut-off of 75% of the maximum score, 49.4% (n = 299/605), 62.8% (n = 380/605), and 12.73% (n = 77/605) of the respondents had good knowledge, attitude, and practices toward prudent AMU and AMR, respectively. The multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed that the positive predictors of good knowledge and attitude were male gender, higher level of education, district, and the types of birds (layers). Similarly, those of the male gender (OR: 3.36; 95% CI: 1.38–8.20; p = 0.008) and those that rear layers (OR: 4.63; 95% CI: 1.75–12.25; p = 0.003) were more likely to practice prudent usage of antimicrobials. The findings of this study show poor practice toward prudent antibiotic usage despite good knowledge of AMR. This study provides essential baseline data on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of poultry farmers in Nepal and offers valuable insights that could help in the design of interventions and policies aimed at addressing illicit AMU and AMR in poultry in Nepal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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27 pages, 886 KiB  
Article
Regulations on the Use of Antibiotics in Livestock Production in South America: A Comparative Literature Analysis
by Rafael Almeida Da Silva, Nelson Enrique Arenas, Vera Lucia Luiza, Jorge Antonio Zepeda Bermudez and Sian E. Clarke
Antibiotics 2023, 12(8), 1303; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12081303 - 9 Aug 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2467
Abstract
As a global health problem, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crosses national borders, leading UN (United Nations) multilateral agencies to call for all countries to improve the stewardship of antibiotics in humans and animals. South American countries have changed their regulations regarding antibiotic use in [...] Read more.
As a global health problem, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crosses national borders, leading UN (United Nations) multilateral agencies to call for all countries to improve the stewardship of antibiotics in humans and animals. South American countries have changed their regulations regarding antibiotic use in livestock production. This literature review examines how far the five largest meat-producing countries in South America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay) have come in terms of the relevant legislation. Rules on market entry (marketing authorization and official distribution systems) are already set in all countries examined. Four countries do not allow growth promoters based on critically important antibiotics, and countries have also begun to set guidelines and minimum welfare and biosecurity requirements to reduce the therapeutic demand for antibiotics. Nonetheless, there are aspects related to the distribution, use, and disposal of antibiotics that need to be developed further. In conclusion, legislation in South American countries is moving towards the goals set by UN multilateral agencies, but more can be done. Differences between countries’ rules and the gold standards set by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), World Health Organization (WHO), and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reveal possible adaptations to the countries’ realities. Further studies must examine compliance with the legislation already set and investigate other tools that can be used alongside legislation as a driving force to change stakeholder behaviour. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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12 pages, 1843 KiB  
Article
Dietary Palygorskite-Based Antibacterial Agent Supplementation as an Alternative to Antibiotics Improves Growth Performance, Blood Parameters, and Rumen Microbiota in Sheep
by Shujie Li, Yue Liu, Hanfang Zeng, Chanjian Wang and Zhaoyu Han
Antibiotics 2023, 12(7), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12071144 - 2 Jul 2023
Viewed by 898
Abstract
This research aimed to investigate the effects of a palygorskite-based antibacterial agent (PAA) as an alternative to antibiotics on growth performance, blood parameters, and rumen microbiota in sheep. A total of 120 sheep were randomly divided into five groups of six replicates with [...] Read more.
This research aimed to investigate the effects of a palygorskite-based antibacterial agent (PAA) as an alternative to antibiotics on growth performance, blood parameters, and rumen microbiota in sheep. A total of 120 sheep were randomly divided into five groups of six replicates with four sheep each. Sheep were fed a basal diet, an antibiotic diet supplemented with 500 g/t chlortetracycline (CTC), and a basal diet supplemented with 500, 1000, and 2000 g/t PAA for 80 d, respectively. Supplementation with 2000 g/t PAA and 500 g/t CTC increased the average daily gain (ADG) of sheep compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Diets supplemented with 2000 g/t PAA and 500 g/t CTC reduced (p < 0.05) the feed:gain ratio (F/G ratio) in the overall periods. Dietary supplementation with 1000 g/t PAA significantly increased albumin and total protein (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was found between growth hormone concentration and PAA supplementation (p < 0.05). In addition, compared to the control group, the CTC group had higher growth hormone concentration and lower lipopolysaccharide concentration (p < 0.05). No difference was observed between the five groups in terms of rumen fermentation characteristics (p > 0.05). At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria was lower in the PAA 2000 and CTC 500 groups than in the control and PAA 500 groups (p < 0.05). At the genus level, a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the relative abundance of RuminococcaceaeUCG-010 was observed in the PAA 1000, PAA 2000, and CTC 500 groups compared with that in the control group. In addition, the relative abundance of Prevotella1 (p < 0.05) was higher in the PAA 2000 group than in the control group. These findings indicate that dietary supplementation with PAA has ameliorative effects on growth performance, blood parameters, and rumen microbiota, with an optimal dosage of 2000 g/t for sheep. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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11 pages, 922 KiB  
Article
Resistant Bacteria in Broiler Litter Used as Ruminant Feed: Effect of Biotic Treatment
by Solomon Efriem, Chris Sabastian, Shlomo Blum, Marcelo Fleker, Sameer J. Mabjeesh and Malka Britzi
Antibiotics 2023, 12(7), 1093; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12071093 - 23 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1103
Abstract
The use of antimicrobial drugs and coccidiostats in poultry farming is widespread, with a significant proportion of these drugs being excreted and released into the environment. The residues of such drugs in poultry litter (PL) can result in the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. [...] Read more.
The use of antimicrobial drugs and coccidiostats in poultry farming is widespread, with a significant proportion of these drugs being excreted and released into the environment. The residues of such drugs in poultry litter (PL) can result in the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The impact of different biotic treatments (aerobic, anaerobic, and stacking) on broiler litter (BL) before its use as animal feed has not been studied extensively, nor have the differences between antimicrobial-dependent and independent broiler farms been investigated. This study aimed to determine the resistant bacteria in BL used as ruminant feed before and after litter treatment. The results show that the most resistant bacteria before BL treatment were the Enterococcus species. This study also found that the quantity of amoxicillin-resistant Enterococcus detected in samples from antimicrobial-dependent farms was significantly higher than in those from antimicrobial-independent farms. Additionally, 14% of bacteria were multi-resistant to tetracycline, sulfafurazole, and erythromycin in antimicrobial-independent farm litters, significantly lower than those measured in antimicrobial-dependent broiler farm litter. This study highlights the importance of better understanding, regulating, managing, and using animal waste appropriately to reduce the number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and minimize the use of antimicrobials that carry high risks for animals, humans, and the environment Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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19 pages, 2042 KiB  
Article
Impact of Selective Dry Cow Therapy on Antimicrobial Consumption, Udder Health, Milk Yield, and Culling Hazard in Commercial Dairy Herds
by Zyncke Lipkens, Sofie Piepers and Sarne De Vliegher
Antibiotics 2023, 12(5), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12050901 - 12 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1624
Abstract
The main objective of the study was to evaluate whether or not implementing selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) on commercial dairy farms reduces antimicrobial consumption without negatively affecting future performances when compared to blanket dry cow therapy (BDCT). Twelve commercial herds in the [...] Read more.
The main objective of the study was to evaluate whether or not implementing selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) on commercial dairy farms reduces antimicrobial consumption without negatively affecting future performances when compared to blanket dry cow therapy (BDCT). Twelve commercial herds in the Flemish region of Belgium with overall good udder health management were enrolled in a randomized control trial, including 466 cows that were assigned to a BDCT (n = 244) or SDCT (n = 222) group within herds. Cows in the SDCT group were dried off with internal teat sealants combined or not with long-acting antimicrobials according to a predefined algorithm based on test-day somatic cell count (SCC) data. Total antimicrobial use for udder health between drying off and 100 days in milk was significantly lower in the SDCT group (i.e., a mean of 1.06 defined the course dose) compared to the BDCT group (i.e., a mean of 1.25 defined the course dose), although with substantial variation between herds. Test-day SCC values, milk yield, and the clinical mastitis and culling hazard in the first 100 days in milk did not differ between the BDCT and SDCT groups. SCC-based and algorithm-guided SDCT is suggested to decrease the overall use of antimicrobials without jeopardizing cows’ udder health and milk yield. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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12 pages, 652 KiB  
Article
Efficacy of Penicillin–Streptomycin Brands against Staphylococcus aureus: Concordance between Veterinary Clinicians’ Perception and the Realities
by Takele Beyene Tufa, Asegid Guta, Tafese B. Tufa, Dereje Nigussie, Ashenafi Feyisa Beyi, Fanta D. Gutema and Fikru Regassa
Antibiotics 2023, 12(3), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12030570 - 14 Mar 2023
Viewed by 2259
Abstract
Antibiotics must be safe and effective for use in both human and veterinary medicine. However, information about the efficacy of different brands of antibiotics commonly used in veterinary practices is lacking in Ethiopia. In this study, we determined the efficacy of three brands [...] Read more.
Antibiotics must be safe and effective for use in both human and veterinary medicine. However, information about the efficacy of different brands of antibiotics commonly used in veterinary practices is lacking in Ethiopia. In this study, we determined the efficacy of three brands of penicillin–streptomycin (Pen&strep, Penstrep, and Pro&strep) by performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from cow milk from dairy farms in the towns of Sebata and Bishoftu, Central Ethiopia. We also assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of veterinarians regarding the quality and use of brand antibiotics and the antibiotic utilization practices of dairy farm personnel using a structured questionnaire. Of 43 S. aureus isolated and tested, 33 (77%), 10 (23%), and 1 (2%) were susceptible to brands A, B, and C, respectively. According to the respondents, all of them reported that penstrep is the most prescribed antibiotic in dairy farms (100%), followed by oxytetracycline (78%) and sulfa drugs (52%). All veterinarians perceived that antibiotics imported from Western countries have a higher efficacy than those from Eastern countries, and they preferred brand A to the other brands, witnessing its better clinical outcome. The majority (87%) and a little more than half (53%) of the respondents perceived the overuse of antibiotics in veterinary clinics and dairy farms, respectively. Our study revealed the better efficacy of brand A against S. aureus compared to the other brands. Interestingly, the veterinarians’ perception of and preference toward the use of brand antibiotics agreed with the findings of our antibacterial susceptibility testing. The prudent use of brand A is critically important for sustaining effective treatment, avoiding the risk of antimicrobial resistance, and helping to address animal welfare issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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22 pages, 3787 KiB  
Article
Drivers of Antibiotic Use in Semi-Intensive Poultry Farms: Evidence from a Survey in Senegal
by Eve Emes, Adiouma Faye, Nichola Naylor, Dagim Belay, Babacar Ngom, Awa Gueye Fall, Gwen Knight and Michel Dione
Antibiotics 2023, 12(3), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12030460 - 24 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2171
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the capacity of microbial pathogens to survive in the presence of antimicrobials, is considered one of the greatest threats to human health worldwide and is growing rapidly in importance. AMR is thought to be driven in part by the use [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the capacity of microbial pathogens to survive in the presence of antimicrobials, is considered one of the greatest threats to human health worldwide and is growing rapidly in importance. AMR is thought to be driven in part by the use of antimicrobials (AMU) in livestock production. AMU reduction in agriculture is therefore important, but doing so may endanger farmers’ livelihoods and hamper broader food security. Understanding the drivers for farmers’ antibiotics use is essential for designing interventions which avoid harming agricultural output and to safeguard farmers’ economic security. In this study, we analyse AMUSE survey data from poultry farmers in Senegal to explore the effects of vaccination, attitudes towards AMR, and biosecurity practices on: AMU, animal mortality, and farm productivity. We found that farmers with more “AMR-aware” attitudes may be less likely to use antibiotics in healthy birds. Stronger on-farm biosecurity was associated with less use of antibiotics in healthy birds, and in some specifications was linked to higher broiler productivity. Vaccination and AMU were both higher in farms with a higher disease prevalence, and both factors appeared conducive to higher broiler productivity. Overall, there is evidence that awareness raising and biosecurity improvements could encourage prudent use of antibiotics, and that biosecurity and vaccination could to some extent replace antibiotic use as productivity-enhancing and disease management tools in broiler farms. Finally, issues of farm antimicrobial stewardship must be considered at the structural level, with farm behaviours contingent on interaction with state and private stakeholders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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13 pages, 633 KiB  
Article
Effects of Clostridium butyricum as an Antibiotic Alternative on Growth Performance, Intestinal Morphology, Serum Biochemical Response, and Immunity of Broilers
by Tiantian Yang, Mengsi Du, Jing Zhang, Baseer Ahmad, Qiang Cheng, Xiaobing Wang, Zaheer Abbas, Yucui Tong, Jinzhuan Li, Yichen Zhou, Rijun Zhang and Dayong Si
Antibiotics 2023, 12(3), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12030433 - 22 Feb 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1480
Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the effects of Clostridium butyiricum on growth performance, intestinal morphology, serum biochemical response, and immunity in broiler chickens. A total of 330 commercial one-day-old, mixed-sex Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into five treatment groups with six [...] Read more.
The current study aimed to investigate the effects of Clostridium butyiricum on growth performance, intestinal morphology, serum biochemical response, and immunity in broiler chickens. A total of 330 commercial one-day-old, mixed-sex Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into five treatment groups with six replicates per group. The broilers were fed the basal diet (CON), the basal diet with 150 mg/kg of aureomycin (AM), the basal diet with C. butyricum at 2 × 108 CFU/kg (CBL), the basal diet with C. butyricum at 4 × 108 CFU/kg (CBM), and the basal diet with C. butyricum at 8 × 108 CFU/kg (CBH). Results showed that the final body weight (BW) (p < 0.01; p < 0.05), ADG from day 22 to 39 (p < 0.05), and ADG from day 1 to 39 (p < 0.01; p < 0.05) were improved in a linear and quadratic response with the inclusion of C. butyricum. There were no differences in feed conversion rate (FCR) among all groups (p > 0.05). Supplementation with C. butyricum quadratically reduced the crypt depth at day 21 (p < 0.01), linearly improved the villus height in the jejunum at day 39 (p < 0.001), and linearly and quadratically increased the villus height to crypt depth (V/C) ratio in the jejunum at day 21 (p < 0.01) and day 39 (p < 0.01; p < 0.001). Dietary C. butyricum affected the thymus index at day 21 and day 39 (linear, p < 0.01), and the bursa of Fabricius index at day 39 (quadratic, p < 0.05). Compared to the AM group, the serum urea contents were decreased (p < 0.05) but the IgG contents were increased in the CBL and CBH groups at day 21 (p < 0.01); in addition, serum albumin (ALB) concentrations in all the C. butyricum-supplemented groups (p < 0.01) and IgG concentrations in the CBM group were augmented at day 39 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary C. butyricum could enhance growth performance by improving jejunal morphology and stimulating immunity organ development in broilers, and could be an alternative to antibiotics in poultry feeds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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9 pages, 550 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Consumption in the Livestock Sector in Bhutan: Volumes, Values, Rates, and Trends for the Period 2017–2021
by Ratna B. Gurung, Karma P. Zangmo, James R. Gilkerson, Glenn F. Browning, Angeline S. Ferdinand and Mauricio J. C. Coppo
Antibiotics 2023, 12(2), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12020411 - 18 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1499
Abstract
Data on the use of antimicrobials in humans and livestock may provide evidence to guide policy changes to mitigate the risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, there is limited information available about antimicrobial use in livestock in low- and middle-income countries, even though [...] Read more.
Data on the use of antimicrobials in humans and livestock may provide evidence to guide policy changes to mitigate the risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, there is limited information available about antimicrobial use in livestock in low- and middle-income countries, even though these nations are most vulnerable to the impact of AMR. This study aimed to assess the consumption of veterinary antimicrobials in Bhutan and identify areas for improvement to reduce the use of antimicrobials in livestock. National data on livestock numbers and annual procurement of veterinary antimicrobials over five years (2017–2021) were used to calculate rates of antimicrobial consumption and annual national expenditure on veterinary antimicrobials in Bhutan. The rate of antimicrobial consumption in Bhutan was 3.83 mg per population correction unit, which is lower than most countries in Europe, comparable with the rates of consumption in Iceland and Norway, and approximately 120-fold lower than published rates of antimicrobial consumption in South Asian countries, including Nepal and Pakistan. The low rates of antimicrobial consumption by the animal health sector in Bhutan could be attributable to stronger governance of antimicrobial use in Bhutan, higher levels of compliance with regulation, and better adherence to standard guidelines for antimicrobial treatment of livestock. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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16 pages, 6077 KiB  
Article
Protective Effects of Combined Utilization of Quercetin and Florfenicol on Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Syndrome Infected Litopenaeus vannamei
by Qianqian Zhai, Zhiqiang Chang, Jitao Li and Jian Li
Antibiotics 2022, 11(12), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11121784 - 9 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1265
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the immunity, survival rate, and disease resistance of Litopenaeus vannamei treated using quercetin and florfenicol alone or in combination, after infection with acute hepatopancreatic necrosis syndrome caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VPAHPND). After infection with VPAHPND [...] Read more.
This study aimed to determine the immunity, survival rate, and disease resistance of Litopenaeus vannamei treated using quercetin and florfenicol alone or in combination, after infection with acute hepatopancreatic necrosis syndrome caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VPAHPND). After infection with VPAHPND, different types of feed were given to the shrimp for 5 days, including a control diet (drug-free), florfenicol only diet (15 mg/kg), quercetin only diet (400 mg/kg), a low-dose florfenicol/quercetin combined diet (200 mg/kg quercetin + 7.0 mg/kg florfenicol), a moderate-dose florfenicol/quercetin combined diet (400 mg/kg quercetin + 15 mg/kg florfenicol), and a high-dose florfenicol/quercetin combined diet (800 mg/kg quercetin + 30 mg/kg florfenicol). The cumulative mortality of shrimp was significantly reduced in the drug combination groups compared with either drug used alone (p < 0.05). The density of Vibrio was significantly lower and the immune parameters were significantly increased in the drug combination groups compared with either drug used alone (p < 0.05). Moreover, in the drug combination groups, the hepatopancreas tubules showed better integrity and structure compared with those when either drug was used alone. Therefore, compared with single drug treatment, the florfenicol and quercetin combination enhanced disease resistance, survival, and immune activity of VPAHPND-infected shrimp. When the combination treatment is used, the dosage of florfenicol can be reduced and a better therapeutic effect is obtained. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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17 pages, 917 KiB  
Article
Qualitative Study on Antimicrobial Usage and Resistance in the Dairy Chain: A Situation Analysis and Solutions by Stakeholders from Punjab, India
by Deepthi Vijay, Jasbir Singh Bedi, Pankaj Dhaka, Randhir Singh, Jaswinder Singh, Anil Kumar Arora and Jatinder Paul Singh Gill
Antibiotics 2022, 11(9), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11091229 - 9 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2717
Abstract
The rising prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in animal foods and injudicious antibiotic use in the dairy sector pose significant threats to public health. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with a strategic sample of four stakeholder groups (114 [...] Read more.
The rising prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in animal foods and injudicious antibiotic use in the dairy sector pose significant threats to public health. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with a strategic sample of four stakeholder groups (114 participants) associated with antibiotic usage in the dairy sector of Punjab. The FGDs were conducted among veterinarians (n = 56), para-veterinarians (n = 28), and KIIs were conducted among chemists (n = 18) and dairy quality managers (n = 12) during 2020–2021. FGDs and qualitative interviews of various stakeholders depict existing risk practices in the fields that may promote antimicrobial resistance. The present study revealed that widely prevalent quackery (treatment practices carried out by unauthorized persons without any recognized diploma/degree) and self-treatment by farmers, over-the-counter availability of antibiotics, low veterinarian per animal ratio, and lack of awareness among the society about the potential public health effects of antimicrobial resistance were the main risk factors for injudicious antibiotic use in the dairy sector. The present study involved a comprehensive approach targeting the stakeholders in the dairy sector and their reflections on judicious antimicrobial usage and antimicrobial resistance adapted to the dairy farming of Punjab. There is an urgent need for the advocation of policies that consider the specific challenges faced by the dairy sector to simultaneously improve access to veterinary services as well as strengthen antibiotic stewardship. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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20 pages, 1892 KiB  
Article
Chemotherapeutic Strategies with Valnemulin, Tilmicosin, and Tulathromycin to Control Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae Infection in Pigs
by Giovani Marco Stingelin, Marina Lopes Mechler-Dreibi, Gabriel Yuri Storino, Karina Sonalio, Henrique Meiroz de Souza Almeida, Fernando Antônio Moreira Petri and Luís Guilherme de Oliveira
Antibiotics 2022, 11(7), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11070893 - 4 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2144
Abstract
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is the primary agent of Swine Enzootic Pneumonia (SEP). Vaccines reduce the clinical manifestation of the disease but do not prevent infection. The present study aimed to evaluate the use of antimicrobial drugs to minimize the impact of M. hyopneumoniae. [...] Read more.
Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is the primary agent of Swine Enzootic Pneumonia (SEP). Vaccines reduce the clinical manifestation of the disease but do not prevent infection. The present study aimed to evaluate the use of antimicrobial drugs to minimize the impact of M. hyopneumoniae. For this, 32 pregnant female pigs and their litters were selected and then followed from birth to slaughter. The study involved three experimental groups that received metaphylactic treatment with different protocols involving tilmicosin, valnemulin, tulathromycin, and a control group to compare the effect of treatments against M. hyopneumoniae infection throughout the phases. Performance data were recorded, and the piglets were evaluated for the occurrence of cough. Nasal swab and blood collection was conducted periodically to detect M. hyopneumoniae shedding and anti-M. hyopneumoniae IgG, respectively. At slaughter, the lungs of animals from all groups were evaluated, and samples were collected for histopathological examination and qPCR for M. hyopneumoniae detection. All protocols promoted a reduction in consolidation lung lesions when compared to the control group. Individuals treated with valnemulin showed increased performance results, lower mortality, and low bacterial load in the lung. The results are promising and may indicate an alternative in the strategic control of M. hyopneumoniae infection in pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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15 pages, 1647 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Porcine Bacterial Pathogens: Investigating the Prospect of Testing a Representative Drug for Each Antimicrobial Family
by Anna Vilaró, Elena Novell, Vicens Enrique-Tarancon, Jordi Balielles, Lourdes Migura-García and Lorenzo Fraile
Antibiotics 2022, 11(5), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11050638 - 10 May 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2188
Abstract
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is necessary to carry out antimicrobial stewardship but a limited number of drugs belonging to each antimicrobial family has to be tested for technical limitations and economic resources. In this study, we have determined the minimal inhibitory concentration, using microdilution [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is necessary to carry out antimicrobial stewardship but a limited number of drugs belonging to each antimicrobial family has to be tested for technical limitations and economic resources. In this study, we have determined the minimal inhibitory concentration, using microdilution following international standards (CLSI), for 490 Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, 285 Pasteurella multocida, 73 Bordetella bronchiseptica, 398 Streptococcus suis and 1571 Escherichia coli strains from clinical cases collected in Spain between 2018 and 2020. The antimicrobial susceptibility pattern was deciphered using a principal component analysis for each bacterium and a matrix correlation (high > 0.8, medium 0.5–0.8 and low < 0.5) was obtained for each pair of antimicrobials. No significant associations were observed between MIC patterns for different antimicrobial families, suggesting that co-selection mechanisms are not generally present in these porcine pathogens. However, a high correlation was observed between the fluroquinolones (marbofloxacin and enrofloxacin) for all mentioned pathogens and for ceftiofur and cefquinome for E. coli and S. suis. Moreover, a significant association was also observed for tetracyclines (doxycycline and oxytetracycline) and B. bronchiseptica and tildipirosin/tulathromycin for P. multocida. These results suggest that generally, a representative drug per antimicrobial class cannot be selected, however, for some drug–bug combinations, MIC values from one representative drug could be extrapolated to the whole antimicrobial family. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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22 pages, 8046 KiB  
Review
Can Improved Farm Biosecurity Reduce the Need for Antimicrobials in Food Animals? A Scoping Review
by Pankaj Dhaka, Ilias Chantziaras, Deepthi Vijay, Jasbir Singh Bedi, Iryna Makovska, Evelien Biebaut and Jeroen Dewulf
Antibiotics 2023, 12(5), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12050893 - 11 May 2023
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4445
Abstract
Limited and judicious antimicrobial usage (AMU) is considered the key to saving the success of human and veterinary medicine in treating infections. With the limited alternatives for antimicrobials, farm biosecurity (and herd management) is considered a promising tool to mitigate the non-judicious AMU [...] Read more.
Limited and judicious antimicrobial usage (AMU) is considered the key to saving the success of human and veterinary medicine in treating infections. With the limited alternatives for antimicrobials, farm biosecurity (and herd management) is considered a promising tool to mitigate the non-judicious AMU and to maintain animal health, production, and welfare. The present scoping review aims to analyse the effect of farm biosecurity on AMU in livestock systems and formulate recommendations. Peer-reviewed manuscripts published between 2001–2022 were analyzed using the PRISMA framework using PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. After applying the inclusion criteria, 27 studies were found to assess the effect of farm biosecurity (or management practices) on AMU at the herd/farm level in quantitative/semi-quantitative terms. These studies were carried out in 16 countries, of which 74.1% (20/27) were from 11 European countries. The highest number of studies were from pig farms [51.8% (14/27)], followed by poultry (chicken) farms [25.9% (7/27)], cattle farms [11.1% (3/27)], and a single study from a turkey farm. Two studies include both pig and poultry farms. Most of the studies were cross-sectional [70.4% (19/27)], seven were longitudinal, and one was a case-control study. Complex interactions were observed among factors influencing AMU, such as biosecurity measures, farm characteristics, farmers’ attitudes, availability of animal health services, stewardship, etc. A positive association between farm biosecurity and reduction in AMU was observed in 51.8% (14/27) of the studies, and 18.5% (5/27) showed that improvement in farm management practices was associated with a reduction in AMU. Two studies highlighted that coaching and awareness among farmers might lead to a decrease in AMU. A single study on economic assessment concluded biosecurity practices as a cost-effective way to reduce AMU. On the other hand, five studies showed an uncertain or spurious association between farm biosecurity and AMU. We recommend the reinforcement of the concept of farm biosecurity, especially in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Further, there is a need to strengthen the evidence on the association between farm biosecurity and AMU in region- and species-specific farm settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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11 pages, 1117 KiB  
Review
Antibiotic Use in European Pig Production: Less Is More
by Jeroen Dewulf, Philip Joosten, Ilias Chantziaras, Elise Bernaerdt, Wannes Vanderhaeghen, Merel Postma and Dominiek Maes
Antibiotics 2022, 11(11), 1493; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11111493 - 27 Oct 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3648
Abstract
The goal of this study is to describe the current use of antibiotics in the European pig industry based on an extensive literature review. To achieve this, an overview of results from national (n = 15) and multi-country (n = 2) [...] Read more.
The goal of this study is to describe the current use of antibiotics in the European pig industry based on an extensive literature review. To achieve this, an overview of results from national (n = 15) and multi-country (n = 2) cross-sectional and longitudinal (n = 2) surveys, which describe antimicrobial use in pigs, is presented. Results are further linked to the outcome of the European Surveillance of Veterinary Antimicrobial Consumption (ESVAC) project. Overall, it was found that weaned piglets received the most antibiotics, followed by suckling piglets resulting in over 80% of the treatments being administered to animals before 10 weeks of age. Furthermore, it was observed that antibiotic use (ABU) was significantly associated across age categories, indicating that farms with a high use in piglets also used more antibiotics in their finishers. This may, among other things, be explained by farmers’ habits and behavior. However, above all, the studies showed surprisingly large differences in ABU between the countries. These differences may be related to the differences in disease prevalence and/or differences in the level of biosecurity. However, they may also reflect variations in rules and regulations between countries and/or a difference in attitude towards ABU of farmers and veterinarians that are not necessarily linked to the true animal health situation. Furthermore, it was observed that already a substantial proportion of the European pig production is able to successfully raise pigs without any group treatments, indicating that it is possible to rear pigs without systematic use of antibiotics. Based on the ESVAC data, a decline of 43.2% was observed in sales of antibiotics for animals in Europe between 2011 and 2020. To enable efficient antimicrobial quantification and stewardship, 15 European countries have already established systems for herd level monitoring ABU in pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use in Farms)
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