Antimicrobial Resistance in Poultry: A Global Concern with Local Solutions

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a global health threat that occurs when microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites develop resistance to antimicrobial drugs, reducing the effectiveness of treatments.The increasing prevalence of AMR in poultry has raised concerns about food safety, public health, and economic sustainability. The One Health approach, promoted by organizations like WHO, FAO, and OIE, emphasizes the need for a holistic strategy to combat AMR. This includes responsible antibiotic use, alternative disease prevention methods, improved farm management, and stricter regulations.

Addressing AMR in poultry is essential to ensure sustainable animal production, protect public health, and maintain the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatments. A collaborative approach involving farmers, veterinarians, policymakers, and researchers is crucial in mitigating AMR and securing a healthier future for both animals and humans.

Although poultry farming uses relatively fewer antibiotics than other livestock industries, its contribution to AMR remains significant. This is because poultry production involves large-scale farming, rapid bird turnover, and close confinement, creating an environment where antibiotic-resistant bacteria can develop and spread quickly.

• Key Factors Contributing to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Poultry.

• Unregulated antibiotic use (30%) is the leading cause of AMR, as unregulated use allows resistant bacteria to thrive. Lack of veterinary supervision leads to incorrect dosages and prolonged exposure, accelerating resistance.
• Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) (20%) are added to feed for growth enhancement, but prolonged use fosters resistance. Though banned in many countries, AGPs remain in use in some regions, worsening AMR.
• Poor hygiene and biosecurity (25%)Encourage bacterial persistence. Contaminated water, improper waste disposal, and cross-contamination through workers and equipment contribute to AMR.
• Improper antibiotic administration (10%) due to incorrect dosages, mixing antibiotics, and incomplete treatment courses, enabling bacteria to adapt and increasing resistance.
• Environmental transmission (10%) spreads AMR through contaminated feed, water, and farm surroundings. Wildlife and farm workers act as carriers, transferring resistant bacteria between farms.

Global Regulations and Guidelines on AMR –

• Key Strategies to Control AMR in Poultry

As per the pie chart, 75% of AMR mitigation strategies are directly within our control, highlighting the pivotal role of farm management, responsible antibiotic use, and biosecurity in reducing antimicrobial resistance.

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