EU: MEP calls for tougher controls on animal antibiotics

Almost half antibiotics prescribed in Europe are for animals

12-04-2011

Public health officials have long warned of the dangers of the over-use of antibiotics in humans. The same applies to animals, and since the increase this overuse produces in antimicrobial resistance, known as AMR, is identical in humans and animals, a resolution drafted by Agriculture Committee Chair Paolo de Castro calls for better research and analysis of the impact and more prudent use of antimicrobials in animals.

Today almost half of the antibiotics in Europe are prescribed for animals. So, it is no surprise that the overuse of antimicrobials is considered a factor in the increasing problem of resistance to antibiotics, which now poses a serious threat to the European livestock sector. Antibiotics are not only used to treat animals, but also for disease prevention and growth promotion.

Food chain vector in transmission of AMR

Animal resistance to AMR raises concerns at a public health level. It affects both humans and animals and can pass from humans to animals and from animals to humans...

Source: MEP calls for tougher controls on animal antibiotics
Author: EP

Link: Staph in meat: Are US cattle and poultry over-drugged?
Link: USA: Study: 25% Of Meat Sold In Groceries Contains Drug-Resistant Bacteria By Chris Morran on Apr


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