The emergence of plasmid-mediated multidrug-resistance (MDR) in pathogenic bacteria found in food animals becomes a global concern and poses a significant threat to public health. The consumption of food animal productions carrying antibiotic-resistant bacteria has resulted in the acquisition of antibiotic-resistant infections. Plasmid-mediated horizontal gene transfer plays a significant role in the evolution and adaptation of bacteria, and has important implications for public health and the development of antibiotic resistance. It is urgent to coordinate global action in the fight against the spread of plasmid-mediated multidrug-resistant bacteria on a global scale through the One Health approach.
The use of antibiotics in food animal production can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria. This resistance can then be transferred to human pathogens through the exchange of genetic material, such as plasmids, between bacteria.
The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health and emphasizes collaboration between different sectors to promote the health of all. This approach is particularly relevant in addressing the issue of plasmid-mediated multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria in food animals.
Efforts to address this issue may include reducing the use of antibiotics in food animal production, improving sanitation and hygiene practices in animal agriculture, and promoting the responsible use of antibiotics in human medicine. Additionally, surveillance programs can help monitor the spread of antimicrobial resistance in both animals and humans and identify emerging threats.
In conclusion, plasmid-mediated multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria in food animals pose a significant threat to human health, and addressing this issue requires a collaborative One Health approach.
For this article collection, we welcome original research and review articles on the following subtopics:
1. Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria: The emergence and spread of MDR bacteria in food animals have raised serious concerns about the efficacy of antibiotics in both veterinary and human medicine. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in animal husbandry have been identified as the primary drivers of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans through the food chain.
2. One Health Approach: The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health and emphasizes the need for a coordinated and collaborative approach to address the issue of MDR pathogens in food animals.
3. Surveillance and Monitoring: Surveillance and monitoring programs are essential to track the prevalence and distribution of MDR pathogens in food animals and to inform appropriate interventions to prevent their spread.
4. Alternative Strategies: Developing alternative strategies to reduce the use of antibiotics in animal husbandry, such as improving animal husbandry practices, using probiotics and prebiotics, and developing vaccines, can help reduce the emergence and spread of MDR pathogens in food animals.
5. Risk Communication: Effective risk communication strategies are essential to raise awareness among stakeholders, including farmers, veterinarians, and consumers, about the potential risks associated with MDR pathogens in food animals and to encourage the adoption of appropriate measures to reduce these risks.
Please contact Xiunan Kong at [email protected] with any queries regarding this Article Collection.
Dr. Zhang is currently an associate professor at the College of Food Science and Engineering, Bohai University. His research focuses on the rapid detection of foodborne pathogens, control of animal diseases, aquaculture and restoration, and food quality and safety control.
