Prevent and control infection

AMR infections can transfer resistant bacteria between people, animals and the environment. Industries have begun antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance on farms. It’s thought to be possible that AMR infections can transfer to humans through the food chain.

  • Contact with animals that have antimicrobial resistance (AMR) infections can transfer resistant bacteria to people, and vice versa. 
  • AMR infections in food-producing animals may pose a risk to human health through foods, but this needs further research.
  • AMR can also be transmitted to humans via the environment, water and direct contact with animals, and vice versa. 

What is industry doing?

  • Industries have increased their efforts in AMR surveillance and adopting antimicrobial stewardship practices on farms. 
  • Industries have begun an Australian Intensive Animal Antimicrobial Stewardship working group to share ideas and to develop and implement stewardship frameworks. 

What can you do?

  • Understand that not all sick animals need antibiotics.
  • Use suitable biosecurity practices to control infections.
  • Separate sick animals to avoid spread of infection.
  • Only use antibiotics when prescribed by your veterinarian. 
  • Keep to the withholding periods set out by your veterinarian.
  • Consult your veterinarian for further information.


 

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