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27 pages, 4236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Canine and Feline Urinary Tract Infection Pathogens Isolated from Animals with Clinical Signs in European Veterinary Practices during the Period 2013–2018

by Robin Temmerman, Helena Berlamont, Farid El Garch, Markus Rose, Shabbir Simjee, Sylvie Meschi and Anno de Jong

Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060500 - 28 May 2024

Viewed by 1597

Abstract

Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur frequently in companion animals and are often treated with antibiotics. However, antimicrobial resistance can severely hamper treatment success. Therefore, antimicrobial susceptibility monitoring is key. UTI isolates were obtained from dogs and cats in two collection periods (ComPath [...] Read more.

Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur frequently in companion animals and are often treated with antibiotics. However, antimicrobial resistance can severely hamper treatment success. Therefore, antimicrobial susceptibility monitoring is key. UTI isolates were obtained from dogs and cats in two collection periods (ComPath II: 2013–2014 and ComPath III: 2017–2018) as part of CEESA’s ComPath programme. Susceptibility testing of the UTI isolates (2021 in total) was carried out at one central laboratory using agar and broth dilution methodology as recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated bacterium in UTI in both dogs (46.9%, 43.1%) and cats (61.2%, 48.3%) across ComPath II and ComPath III, respectively. The percentage of resistance in E. coli was low (<10%) across both programmes in both dogs and cats except for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (dogs ComPath III: 12.9%; cats ComPath II: 13.0%) and enrofloxacin (10.5%), marbofloxacin (11.4%), and doxycycline (98.8%) for dogs in ComPath III. Three (7.5%) of the 40 isolated S. aureus bacteria in total were MRSA and harboured mecA. The level of multidrug resistance (MDR) was generally low and ranged from 0.0% for feline coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp. to 11.7% for canine Proteus spp., except for a peak of MDR observed in canine Klebsiella isolates from ComPath II (36.7%). Overall, antimicrobial resistance for most canine and feline UTI pathogens isolated during the ComPath II and ComPath III programmes was low (1–10%) to moderate (10–20%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4971 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Microevolution and Co-Selection Assessment of Amoxicillin and Cefotaxime Impact on Escherichia coli Resistance Development

by Ádám Kerek, Bence Török, Levente Laczkó, Zoltán Somogyi, Gábor Kardos, Krisztián Bányai, Eszter Kaszab, Krisztina Bali and Ákos Jerzsele

Antibiotics 2024, 13(3), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13030247 - 7 Mar 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2137

Abstract

The global spread of antimicrobial resistance has become a prominent issue in both veterinary and public health in the 21st century. The extensive use of amoxicillin, a beta-lactam antibiotic, and consequent resistance development are particularly alarming in food-producing animals, with a focus on [...] Read more.

The global spread of antimicrobial resistance has become a prominent issue in both veterinary and public health in the 21st century. The extensive use of amoxicillin, a beta-lactam antibiotic, and consequent resistance development are particularly alarming in food-producing animals, with a focus on the swine and poultry sectors. Another beta-lactam, cefotaxime, is widely utilized in human medicine, where the escalating resistance to third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins is a major concern. The aim of this study was to simulate the development of phenotypic and genotypic resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, focusing on amoxicillin and cefotaxime. The investigation of the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of antibiotics was performed at 1×, 10×, 100×, and 1000× concentrations using the modified microbial evolution and growth arena (MEGA-plate) method. Our results indicate that amoxicillin significantly increased the MIC values of several tested antibiotics, except for oxytetracycline and florfenicol. In the case of cefotaxime, this increase was observed in all classes. A total of 44 antimicrobial resistance genes were identified in all samples. Chromosomal point mutations, particularly concerning cefotaxime, revealed numerous complex mutations, deletions, insertions, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were not experienced in the case of amoxicillin. The findings suggest that, regarding amoxicillin, the point mutation of the acrB gene could explain the observed MIC value increases due to the heightened activity of the acrAB-tolC efflux pump system. However, under the influence of cefotaxime, more intricate processes occurred, including complex amino acid substitutions in the ampC gene promoter region, increased enzyme production induced by amino acid substitutions and SNPs, as well as mutations in the acrR and robA repressor genes that heightened the activity of the acrAB-tolC efflux pump system. These changes may contribute to the significant MIC increases observed for all tested antibiotics. The results underscore the importance of understanding cross-resistance development between individual drugs when choosing clinical alternative drugs. The point mutations in the mdtB and emrR genes may also contribute to the increased activity of the mdtABC-tolC and emrAB-tolC pump systems against all tested antibiotics. The exceptionally high mutation rate induced by cephalosporins justifies further investigations to clarify the exact mechanism behind. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microbiological Quality and Antimicrobial Resistance of Commercial Probiotic Products for Food-Producing Animals

by Hoang My Tran, Rangsiya Prathan, Si Thu Hein and Rungtip Chuanchuen

Antibiotics 2024, 13(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13020148 - 1 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1870

Abstract

Probiotics have been popularly used in livestock production as an alternative to antibiotics. This study aimed to investigate the microbiological quality and phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance of bacteria in probiotic products sold for food animals. A total of 45 probiotic products were [...] Read more.

Probiotics have been popularly used in livestock production as an alternative to antibiotics. This study aimed to investigate the microbiological quality and phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance of bacteria in probiotic products sold for food animals. A total of 45 probiotic products were examined for the number of viable cells, species, and antimicrobial susceptibility; the contamination of Escherichia coli and Salmonella; and the presence of 112 genes encoding resistance to clinically important antimicrobials and transferability of AMR determinants. The results showed that 29 of 45 products (64.4%) were incorrectly labeled in either number of viable cells or bacterial species. None of the tested products were contaminated with E. coli and Salmonella. A total of 33 out of 64 bacterial isolates (51.6%) exhibited resistance to at least one antimicrobial agent. Of the 45 products tested, 16 (35.5%) carried AMR genes. Almost all AMR genes detected in probiotic products were not correlated to the AMR phenotype of probiotic strains formulated in the products. Three streptomycin-resistant Lactobacillus isolates could horizontally transfer their AMR determinants. The findings demonstrated that the probiotic products could serve as reservoirs for the spread of AMR genes and may not yield benefits to animals as claimed. The need for the adequate quality control of probiotic products is highlighted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

18 pages, 2862 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Microevolution and Co-Selection Assessment of Florfenicol Impact on Escherichia coli Resistance Development

by Ádám Kerek, Bence Török, Levente Laczkó, Gábor Kardos, Krisztián Bányai, Zoltán Somogyi, Eszter Kaszab, Krisztina Bali and Ákos Jerzsele

Antibiotics 2023, 12(12), 1728; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12121728 - 14 Dec 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1925

Abstract

The issue of antimicrobial resistance is becoming an increasingly serious challenge in both human and veterinary medicine. Prudent antimicrobial use in veterinary medicine is warranted and supported by international guidelines, with the Antimicrobial Advice Ad Hoc Expert Group (AMEG) placing particular emphasis on [...] Read more.

The issue of antimicrobial resistance is becoming an increasingly serious challenge in both human and veterinary medicine. Prudent antimicrobial use in veterinary medicine is warranted and supported by international guidelines, with the Antimicrobial Advice Ad Hoc Expert Group (AMEG) placing particular emphasis on the critically important group B antimicrobials. These antimicrobials are commonly employed, especially in the poultry and swine industry. The impact of florfenicol, a veterinary antibiotic, was studied on the resistance development of Escherichia coli. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the use of florfenicol on the development of phenotypic and genomic resistances, not only to the drug itself but also to other drugs. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the antibiotics were investigated at 1×, 10×, 100× and 1000× concentrations using the adapted Microbial Evolution and Growth Arena (MEGA-plate) method. The results demonstrate that florfenicol can select for resistance to fluoroquinolone antibiotics (167× MIC value increase) and cephalosporins (67× MIC value increase). A total of 44 antimicrobial resistance genes were identified, the majority of which were consistent across the samples. Chromosomal point mutations, including alterations in resistance-associated and regulatory genes (acrB, acrR, emrR and robA), are thought to trigger multiple drug efflux pump activations, leading to phenotypically increased resistance. The study underscores the impact of florfenicol and its role in the development of antimicrobial resistance, particularly concerning fluoroquinolone antibiotics and cephalosporins. This study is the first to report florfenicol’s dose-dependent enhancement of other antibiotics’ MICs, linked to mutations in SOS-box genes (mdtABC-tolC, emrAB-tolC and acrAB-tolC) and increased multidrug efflux pump genes. Mutations in the regulatory genes acrR, emrR and rpbA support the possibility of increased gene expression. The results are crucial for understanding antimicrobial resistance and its development, highlighting the promising potential of in vitro evolutionary and coselection studies for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 5034 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumer Preferences and Attitudes towards Antibiotic Use in Food Animals

by Katherine E. Adam and Ann Bruce

Antibiotics 2023, 12(10), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12101545 - 16 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2407

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major challenges faced by society, with the real threat of the failure of many medical procedures. Antibiotics are also used in livestock production and provide a potential pathway to increasing AMR. The central challenge involves ensuring [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major challenges faced by society, with the real threat of the failure of many medical procedures. Antibiotics are also used in livestock production and provide a potential pathway to increasing AMR. The central challenge involves ensuring animal health and welfare while securing the long-term effectiveness of antibiotics. This paper reports the results of a survey of 5693 respondents from the customer panels of four major UK supermarkets regarding preferences and attitudes towards antibiotic use in food animals, and their perspectives on how the balance between animal welfare and human benefit can be achieved. The results of these surveys are consistent with those from other countries that found that consumers generally have limited knowledge about antibiotic use in agriculture and AMR, with around 50% responding “don’t know” to many questions. There was agreement about the benefits of antibiotics outweighing harm, with 40% agreeing that, overall, the use of antibiotics to treat disease in farm animals delivers more benefit than harm. However, 44% neither agreed nor disagreed, indicating a high level of uncertainty and a situation that is potentially unstable. The seriousness of the AMR challenge is such that continued action for the more discriminating use of antibiotics must continue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 2066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Economic Value of Antimicrobial Use in Livestock Production

by Jamal L. Roskam, Alfons G. J. M. Oude Lansink and Helmut W. Saatkamp

Antibiotics 2023, 12(10), 1537; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12101537 - 13 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1743

Abstract

(1) Introduction: Antimicrobial agents have played an important role in improving the productivity of worldwide livestock production by reducing the impact of livestock diseases. However, a major drawback of antimicrobial use is the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in food-producing animals. To reduce the [...] Read more.

(1) Introduction: Antimicrobial agents have played an important role in improving the productivity of worldwide livestock production by reducing the impact of livestock diseases. However, a major drawback of antimicrobial use is the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in food-producing animals. To reduce the use of antimicrobials, it is important to know the economic value of the use of antimicrobials and factors that determine that economic value. (2) Results: A theoretical framework was developed to assess the economic value of antimicrobial use. Three situations were distinguished: firstly, a baseline model for a farm with a conventional production system; secondly, an extension of the baseline model that includes the impact of production system improvements; and thirdly, an extension of the baseline model that includes the impacts of risk and risk attitude. This framework shows that the economic value of antimicrobial use is negatively affected by the price of productive inputs and damage-abatement inputs, and positively affected by the output price, the input–output combination, the damage abatement effect, risk aversion and variance in profit. (3) Conclusions: The theoretical framework presented in this study shows that there are several factors that (can) affect the economic value of antimicrobial use. The knowledge about the effect of these factors can be utilized to affect the economic value of antimicrobials and, consequently, affect antimicrobial use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 1296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Susceptibility from a One Health Perspective Regarding Porcine Escherichia coli from Bavaria, Germany

by Julia Ade, Julia M. Riehm, Julia Stadler, Corinna Klose, Yury Zablotski, Mathias Ritzmann and Dolf Kümmerlen

Antibiotics 2023, 12(9), 1424; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12091424 - 8 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1457

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most crucial One Health topics worldwide. Consequently, various national and international surveillance programs collect data and report trends regularly. Ceftiofur, colistin and enrofloxacin belong to the most important and critical class of anti-infective medications in both human [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most crucial One Health topics worldwide. Consequently, various national and international surveillance programs collect data and report trends regularly. Ceftiofur, colistin and enrofloxacin belong to the most important and critical class of anti-infective medications in both human and veterinary medicine. In the present study, antimicrobial resistance was analyzed using the epidemiological cut-off (ECOFF) value on 6569 Escherichia coli isolated from pigs in Bavaria, Germany, during five years, from 2016 to 2020. The statistically relevant results regarding antimicrobial resistance revealed a decrease for colistin, an increase for enrofloxacin, and a constant level for ceftiofur. In Germany, the usage of all three antimicrobial substances in livestock has fallen by 43.6% for polypeptides, 59.0% for fluoroquinolones and 57.8% for the 3rd + 4th generation cephalosporines during this time. Despite the decline in antimicrobial usage, a reduction regarding antimicrobial resistance was solely observed for colistin. This finding illustrates that in addition to the restriction of pharmaceutical consumption, further measures should be considered. Improved biosecurity concepts, a reduction in crowding, and controlled animal movements on farms may play a key role in finally containing the resistance mechanisms of bacteria in farm animals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Susceptibility of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida and Streptococcus suis Isolated from Pigs in Hungary between 2018 and 2021

by Zoltán Somogyi, Patrik Mag, Réka Simon, Ádám Kerek, László Makrai, Imre Biksi and Ákos Jerzsele

Antibiotics 2023, 12(8), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12081298 - 8 Aug 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1752

Abstract

Porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) has been a major animal health, welfare, and economic problem in Hungary; therefore, great emphasis should be put on both the prevention and control of this complex disease. As antibacterial agents are effective tools for control, antibiotic susceptibility [...] Read more.

Porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) has been a major animal health, welfare, and economic problem in Hungary; therefore, great emphasis should be put on both the prevention and control of this complex disease. As antibacterial agents are effective tools for control, antibiotic susceptibility testing is indispensable for the proper implementation of antibacterial therapy and to prevent the spread of resistance. The best method for this is to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by the broth microdilution method. In our study, we measured the MIC values of 164 Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, 65 Pasteurella multocida, and 118 Streptococcus suis isolates isolated from clinical cases against the following antibacterial agents: amoxicillin, ceftiofur, cefquinome, oxytetracycline, doxycycline, tylosin, tilmicosin, tylvalosin, tulathromycin, lincomycin, tiamulin, florfenicol, colistin, enrofloxacin, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. Outstanding efficacy against A. pleuropneumoniae isolates was observed with ceftiofur (100%) and tulathromycin (100%), while high levels of resistance were observed against cefquinome (92.7%) and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (90.8%). Ceftiofur (98.4%), enrofloxacin (100%), florfenicol (100%), and tulathromycin (100%) were found to be highly effective against P. multocida isolates, while 100% resistance was detected against the sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim combination. For the S. suis isolates, only ceftiofur (100%) was not found to be resistant, while the highest rate of resistance was observed against the sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim combination (94.3%). An increasing number of studies report multi-resistant strains of all three pathogens, making their monitoring a high priority for animal and public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fecal Carriage of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-/AmpC-Producing Escherichia coli in Pet and Stray Cats

by Gabriele Ratti, Alessia Facchin, Angelica Stranieri, Alessia Giordano, Saverio Paltrinieri, Paola Scarpa, Deborah Maragno, Alessia Gazzonis, Martina Penati, Camilla Luzzago, Paola Dall’Ara and Stefania Lauzi

Antibiotics 2023, 12(8), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12081249 - 29 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1577

Abstract

Dogs have been reported as potential carriers of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, but the role of cats has been poorly studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and the risk factors associated with the fecal carriage of extended-spectrum β-lactamase and AmpC [...] Read more.

Dogs have been reported as potential carriers of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, but the role of cats has been poorly studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and the risk factors associated with the fecal carriage of extended-spectrum β-lactamase and AmpC (ESBL/AmpC)-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) in pet and stray cats. Fecal samples were collected between 2020 and 2022 from healthy and unhealthy cats and screened for ESBL/AmpC-producing E. coli using selective media. The presence of ESBL/AmpC-producing E. coli was confirmed by phenotypic and molecular methods. The evaluation of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) was performed on positive isolates. Host and hospitalization data were analyzed to identify risk factors. A total of 97 cats’ samples were collected, and ESBL/AmpC-producing E. coli were detected in 6/97 (6.2%), supported by the detection of bla_CTX-M (100%), bla_TEM (83.3%), and bla_SHV (16.7%) genes and the overexpression of chromosomal ampC (1%). All E. coli isolates were categorized as multidrug-resistant. Unhealthy status and previous antibiotic therapy were significantly associated with ESBL/AmpC-producing E. coli fecal carriage. Our results suggest that cats may be carriers of ESBL/AmpC-producing E. coli, highlighting the need for antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary medicine and an antimicrobial-resistance surveillance program focusing on companion animals, including stray cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

18 pages, 3985 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence of Antimicrobial Resistance in Canine and Feline Bacterial Pathogens in Germany under the Impact of the TÄHAV Amendment in 2018

by Marianne Moerer, Antina Lübke-Becker, Astrid Bethe, Roswitha Merle and Wolfgang Bäumer

Antibiotics 2023, 12(7), 1193; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12071193 - 15 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1757

Abstract

The occurrence of antimicrobial resistance due to the use of antimicrobials is considered to be a main cause for treatment failure of bacterial infections in humans and animals. The right of German veterinarians to use and prescribe medications such as antimicrobials is regulated [...] Read more.

The occurrence of antimicrobial resistance due to the use of antimicrobials is considered to be a main cause for treatment failure of bacterial infections in humans and animals. The right of German veterinarians to use and prescribe medications such as antimicrobials is regulated by the Regulation of Veterinary Pharmacies (TÄHAV). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the second amendment to the TÄHAV in 2018 on the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in selected bacterial pathogens isolated from dogs and cats in Germany. For this purpose, we analyzed antimicrobial susceptibility data from 38 German small animal practices gathered between 2015 and 2021 in cooperation with Laboklin (Labor für klinische Diagnostik GmbH & Co.KG, Bad Kissingen, Germany). Annual cumulative susceptibility data of eight bacterial species were analyzed and compared. The mean value of resistant isolates was determined for each year and supplemented by 95% confidence intervals. Encouraged by the amendment, an increase in sample submissions was observed in Germany. The highest resistance rates to the analyzed substances penicillin G, ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cefovecin, and enrofloxacin were found for Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (S. pseudintermedius), S. aureus, and Escherichia coli (E. coli). In contrast, resistance rates were low for Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida) and β-hemolytic streptococci. Significant resistance trends (p < 0.05) assumed as influenced by the TÄHAV amendment could be the significant decreases in resistance rates of S. pseudintermedius against penicillin G to 67% (n = 322/479), and ampicillin to 63% (n = 286/453), as well as S. felis against amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and cefovecin to 2% (n = 2/109), furthermore, the reduction in the occurrence of resistance of S. aureus against enrofloxacin to 4% (n = 3/76) in 2021. Moreover, for all species, the efficacy against the analyzed substances was maintained over the study period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 1036 KiB

Open AccessArticle

‘I Believe What I’m Saying More Than the Test’: The Complicated Place of Rapid, Point-of-Care Tests in Veterinary Diagnostic Practice

by Alison M. Bard, Stephen Hinchliffe, Kin Wing Chan, Henry Buller and Kristen K. Reyher

Antibiotics 2023, 12(5), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12050804 - 24 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2228

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health and development threat, with calls for the optimisation of antimicrobial use (AMU) in the treatment of both humans and animals prevalent across national and international policy. Rapid, low-cost and readily available diagnostics that specifically identify pathogens [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health and development threat, with calls for the optimisation of antimicrobial use (AMU) in the treatment of both humans and animals prevalent across national and international policy. Rapid, low-cost and readily available diagnostics that specifically identify pathogens and their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles have been identified as essential parts of this optimisation process, yet questions over the assumed utility of novel rapid technology as a cornerstone of tackling agricultural AMU still exist. To understand whether this technology may support the optimisation of AMU in the treatment of animal disease, this study qualitatively examines the discourse between veterinarians, laboratory representatives, veterinary researchers and (cattle) farmers within three participatory events concerning diagnostic testing on UK farms, to offer a critical examination of the interaction between veterinary diagnostic practice and agricultural AMU. Veterinarian-led discussion suggested that veterinary rationales for engaging with diagnostic testing are nuanced and complex, where veterinarians (i) were driven by both medical and non-medical motivators; (ii) had a complex professional identity influencing diagnostic-test engagement; and (iii) balanced a multitude of situated contextual factors that informed “gut feelings” on test choice and interpretation. In consequence, it is suggested that data-driven diagnostic technologies may be more palatable for veterinarians to promote to their farm clients in the pursuit of better and more sustainable AMU, whilst also being in synergy with the emerging preventative role of the farm veterinarian. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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11 pages, 983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Equine Gram-Negative Oral Microbiota: An Antimicrobial Resistances Watcher?

by José Pimenta, Ana Rita Pinto, Maria José Saavedra and Mário Cotovio

Antibiotics 2023, 12(4), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12040792 - 21 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1957

Abstract

Horses are considered as reservoirs of multidrug resistant bacteria that can be spread through the environment and possibly to humans. The aim of this study was to characterize the oral Gram-negative microbiota of healthy horses and evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility profile in a [...] Read more.

Horses are considered as reservoirs of multidrug resistant bacteria that can be spread through the environment and possibly to humans. The aim of this study was to characterize the oral Gram-negative microbiota of healthy horses and evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility profile in a One Health approach. For this purpose, samples were collected from the gingival margin of healthy horses, free of antimicrobial therapy, cultured in selective mediums, identified, and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility. Fifty-five Gram-negative isolates were identified, with 89.5% being zoonotic and 62% affecting humans, which were also found commonly in the environment. Forty-eight isolates (96%) were MDR. The phenotypic resistance presented as higher to macrolides (81.8%), β-lactams (55.4%), and quinolones (50%), and lower to sulfonamides (27.3%), tetracyclines, and amphenicols (both with 30.9%). In total, 51.5% of the isolates presented resistance to carbapenems. In addition to being the first report on the commensal oral microbiota of horses and respective susceptibility profile, this study highlights the horse as a valuable sentinel that can control the evolution and transmission of multidrug-resistant bacteria between the “One Health triad” since it is in contact with humans, other animals, and the environment, in different geographic locations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 1836 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Florfenicol in Plasma and Synovial Fluid of Pigs at a Dose of 30 mg/kg_bw Following Intramuscular Administration

by Zoltán Somogyi, Patrik Mag, Réka Simon, Ádám Kerek, Pál Szabó, Ervin Albert, Imre Biksi and Ákos Jerzsele

Antibiotics 2023, 12(4), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12040758 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2645

Abstract

A major problem of our time is the ever-increasing resistance to antimicrobial agents in bacterial populations. One of the most effective ways to prevent these problems is to target antibacterial therapies for specific diseases. In this study, we investigated the in vitro effectiveness [...] Read more.

A major problem of our time is the ever-increasing resistance to antimicrobial agents in bacterial populations. One of the most effective ways to prevent these problems is to target antibacterial therapies for specific diseases. In this study, we investigated the in vitro effectiveness of florfenicol against S. suis, which can cause severe arthritis and septicemia in swine herds. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of florfenicol in porcine plasma and synovial fluid were determined. After a single intramuscular administration of florfenicol at 30 mg/kg_bw, the AUC_0–∞ was 164.45 ± 34.18 µg/mL × h and the maximum plasma concentration was 8.15 ± 3.11 µg/mL, which was reached in 1.40 ± 0.66 h, whereas, in the synovial fluid, these values were 64.57 ± 30.37 µg/mL × h, 4.51 ± 1.16 µg/mL and 1.75 ± 1.16 h, respectively. Based on the MIC values of the 73 S. suis isolates tested, the MIC₅₀ and MIC₉₀ values were 2 µg/mL and 8 µg/mL, respectively. We successfully implemented a killing–time curve in pig synovial fluid as a matrix. Based on our findings, the PK/PD breakpoints of the bacteriostatic (E = 0), bactericidal (E = −3) and eradication (E = −4) effects of florfenicol were determined and MIC thresholds were calculated, which are the guiding indicators for the treatment of these diseases. The AUC_24h/MIC values for bacteriostatic, bactericidal and eradication effects were 22.22 h, 76.88 h and 141.74 h, respectively, in synovial fluid, and 22.42 h, 86.49 h and 161.76 h, respectively, in plasma. The critical MIC values of florfenicol against S. suis regarding bacteriostatic, bactericidal and eradication effects in pig synovial fluid were 2.91 ± 1.37 µg/mL, 0.84 ± 0.39 µg/mL and 0.46 ± 0.21 µg/mL, respectively. These values provide a basis for further studies on the use of florfenicol. Furthermore, our research highlights the importance of investigating the pharmacokinetic properties of antibacterial agents at the site of infection and the pharmacodynamic properties of these agents against different bacteria in different media. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 3293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge and Attitudes of Small Animal Veterinarians on Antimicrobial Use Practices Impacting the Selection of Antimicrobial Resistance in Dogs and Cats in Illinois, United States: A Spatial Epidemiological Approach

by Setyo Yudhanto and Csaba Varga

Antibiotics 2023, 12(3), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12030542 - 8 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2981

Abstract

Inappropriate antimicrobial use in animals and humans has been associated with the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, which has become a global public health concern. Veterinarians’ practice locations and their knowledge and opinions on antimicrobial resistance may influence their antimicrobial prescription practices, which could [...] Read more.

Inappropriate antimicrobial use in animals and humans has been associated with the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, which has become a global public health concern. Veterinarians’ practice locations and their knowledge and opinions on antimicrobial resistance may influence their antimicrobial prescription practices, which could impact the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. This study used a spatial modeling approach to identify areas where veterinarians are knowledgeable about factors that impact the selection of antimicrobial resistance. In addition, we sought to identify regions with higher- and lower-than-expected response rates to our survey to aid future antimicrobial stewardship efforts. A total of 83 veterinarians who treated dogs and/or cats across 34 different Illinois counties responded to our online survey. Most of the responders (90.9%) considered that insufficient doses or duration of antibiotic treatments contribute the most to the selection of antimicrobial resistance. A high proportion of veterinarians (78.7%) attended educational programs on antimicrobial use and resistance; however, only 46.2% were knowledgeable about the current antimicrobial resistance profiles of prevalent bacteria in their area. A mean knowledge score for each county was calculated based on the responses of veterinarians to the survey questions. Local Moran’s I statistic was used to identify counties with high and low knowledge scores. A high knowledge score area in the northeast region and a low knowledge score area in the southeast of Illinois were identified. Using scan statistics with a Poisson model that accounted for the estimated number of veterinarians in a county, a higher-than-expected response rate area was identified in central-east Illinois and a lower-than-expected area in the northeast. This study showed the effectiveness of using geographic analysis and spatial statistics to identify locations where future antimicrobial stewardship programs should focus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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31 pages, 4929 KiB

Open AccessArticle

‘Brave Enough’: A Qualitative Study of Veterinary Decisions to Withhold or Delay Antimicrobial Treatment in Pets

by Ri O. Scarborough, Anna E. Sri, Glenn F. Browning, Laura Y. Hardefeldt and Kirsten E. Bailey

Antibiotics 2023, 12(3), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12030540 - 8 Mar 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3269

Abstract

Veterinarians sometimes prescribe antimicrobials even when they know or suspect that they are unnecessary. The drivers of this behaviour must be understood to design effective antimicrobial stewardship interventions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 veterinarians who treated companion animals in Australia. The Theory [...] Read more.

Veterinarians sometimes prescribe antimicrobials even when they know or suspect that they are unnecessary. The drivers of this behaviour must be understood to design effective antimicrobial stewardship interventions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 veterinarians who treated companion animals in Australia. The Theory of Planned Behaviour was used to organise interview themes, focusing on a decision to withhold antimicrobial therapy in the absence of a clear indication. Many background factors influenced antimicrobial-withholding decisions, including the veterinarian’s communication skills, general attitudes towards antimicrobial resistance (AMR), habits and energy levels. Client awareness of AMR and the veterinarian–client relationship were also important. Beliefs about the consequences of withholding antimicrobials (behavioural beliefs) were dominated by fears of the animal’s condition deteriorating and of failing to meet client expectations. These fears, weighed against the seemingly distant consequences of AMR, were major barriers to withholding antimicrobials. Normative beliefs were primarily focused on the expected approval (or disapproval) of the client and of other veterinarians. Control beliefs about the difficulty of withholding antimicrobials centred around client factors, most importantly, their capacity to adequately monitor their animal, to pay for further investigations, or to undertake non-antimicrobial management, such as wound care, at home. The use of antimicrobials by companion animal veterinarians in the absence of a clear indication is often powerfully driven by behavioural beliefs, chiefly, fears of clinical deterioration and of failing to meet client expectations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 2612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Pathogenic and Commensal Bacteria Recovered from Cattle and Goat Farms

by Winnie Mukuna, Tobenna Aniume, Bharat Pokharel, Collins Khwatenge, Ashesh Basnet and Agnes Kilonzo-Nthenge

Antibiotics 2023, 12(2), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12020420 - 20 Feb 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2892

Abstract

The use of antibiotics in food animals results to antimicrobial resistant bacteria that complicates the ability to treat infections. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of pathogenic and commensal bacteria in soil, water, manure, and milk from cattle and [...] Read more.

The use of antibiotics in food animals results to antimicrobial resistant bacteria that complicates the ability to treat infections. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of pathogenic and commensal bacteria in soil, water, manure, and milk from cattle and goat farms. A total of 285 environmental and 81 milk samples were analyzed for Enterobacteriaceae by using biochemical and PCR techniques. Susceptibility to antibiotics was determined by the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion technique. A total of 15 different Enterobacteriaceae species were identified from goat and cattle farms. Manure had significantly higher (p < 0.05) Enterobacteriaceae (52.0%) than soil (37.2%), trough water (5.4%), and runoff water (5.4%). There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in Enterobacteriaceae in goat milk (53.9%) and cow milk (46.2%). Enterobacteriaceae from environment showed 100% resistance to novobiocin, erythromycin, and vancomycin E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella spp., Enterococcus spp., and Listeria monocytogenes displayed three, five, six, and ten. AMR patterns, respectively. NOV-TET-ERY-VAN was the most common phenotype observed in all isolates. Our study suggest that cattle and goat farms are reservoirs of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Food animal producers should be informed on the prudent use of antimicrobials, good agricultural practices, and biosecurity measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of a Specific Pre- and Probiotic Combination and Parent Stock Vaccination on Performance and Bacterial Communities in Broilers Challenged with a Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli

by Laura Fuhrmann, Jürgen Zentek, Wilfried Vahjen, Ronald Günther and Eva-Maria Saliu

Antibiotics 2022, 11(12), 1703; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11121703 - 26 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1891

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance poses a risk for human and animal health, leading to a growing demand for effective alternatives. Combining nutritional tools and parent stock vaccination could be an approach to achieve sufficient protection against bacterial infections in poultry. In an Escherichia coli O1/O18 [...] Read more.

Antibiotic resistance poses a risk for human and animal health, leading to a growing demand for effective alternatives. Combining nutritional tools and parent stock vaccination could be an approach to achieve sufficient protection against bacterial infections in poultry. In an Escherichia coli O1/O18 challenge trial, we investigated the protective effects of feeding diets containing Enterococcus faecium DSM 7134 and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) combined with specific parent stock vaccination in 225 ROSS 308 broilers. Data on performance parameters, intestinal microbial composition and metabolites, and antibiotic resistance genes (sul1-3, dhfr1a, SHV-12) were obtained. E. faecium and FOS combined with parent stock vaccination led to the highest body weights, which were significantly higher than those of controls throughout the experiment and decreased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria in the crop digesta compared to that in the positive control. However, cumulative feed conversation remained unaffected by the strategies. Birds receiving the pre-/probiotic combination showed lower cecal pH levels and higher crop L-lactate concentrations than the controls, whereas copy numbers of dhfr1a (trimethoprim resistance) and SHV-12 (extended-spectrum beta-lactamase) genes were only decreased in broilers from vaccinated hens compared to those in the challenged control. In conclusion, prophylactic administration of E. faecium and FOS in combination with parent stock vaccination can have complementary effects by improving broiler weight gain and stimulating intestinal bacterial metabolism, which may be beneficial for maintaining gut health in terms of Escherichia coli infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 2813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Concordance between Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotype and Genotype of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius from Healthy Dogs

by Joaquim Viñes, Norma Fàbregas, Daniel Pérez, Anna Cuscó, Rocío Fonticoba, Olga Francino, Lluís Ferrer and Lourdes Migura-Garcia

Antibiotics 2022, 11(11), 1625; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11111625 - 15 Nov 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3121

Abstract

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, a common commensal canine bacterium, is the main cause of skin infections in dogs and is a potential zoonotic pathogen. The emergence of methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) has compromised the treatment of infections caused by these bacteria. In this study, [...] Read more.

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, a common commensal canine bacterium, is the main cause of skin infections in dogs and is a potential zoonotic pathogen. The emergence of methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) has compromised the treatment of infections caused by these bacteria. In this study, we compared the phenotypic results obtained by minimum inhibitory concentration (MICs) for 67 S. pseudintermedius isolates from the skin of nine healthy dogs versus the genotypic data obtained with Nanopore sequencing. A total of 17 antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were detected among the isolates. A good correlation between phenotype and genotype was observed for some antimicrobial classes, such as ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone), macrolides, or tetracycline. However, for oxacillin (beta-lactam) or aminoglycosides the correlation was low. Two antibiotic resistance genes were located on plasmids integrated in the chromosome, and a third one was in a circular plasmid. To our knowledge, this is the first study assessing the correlation between phenotype and genotype regarding antimicrobial resistance of S. pseudintermedius from healthy dogs using Nanopore sequencing technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Canine Saliva as a Possible Source of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes

by Adrienn Gréta Tóth, Imre Tóth, Bernadett Rózsa, Attila Dubecz, Árpád V. Patai, Tibor Németh, Selçuk Kaplan, Eszter Gabriella Kovács, László Makrai and Norbert Solymosi

Antibiotics 2022, 11(11), 1490; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11111490 - 27 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5403

Abstract

While the One Health issues of intensive animal farming are commonly discussed, keeping companion animals is less associated with the interspecies headway of antimicrobial resistance. With the constant advance in veterinary standards, antibiotics are regularly applied in companion animal medicine. Due to the [...] Read more.

While the One Health issues of intensive animal farming are commonly discussed, keeping companion animals is less associated with the interspecies headway of antimicrobial resistance. With the constant advance in veterinary standards, antibiotics are regularly applied in companion animal medicine. Due to the close coexistence of dogs and humans, dog bites and other casual encounters with dog saliva (e.g., licking the owner) are common. According to our metagenome study, based on 26 new generation sequencing canine saliva datasets from 2020 and 2021 reposited in NCBI SRA by The 10,000 Dog Genome Consortium and the Broad Institute within Darwin’s Ark project, canine saliva is rich in bacteria with predictably transferable antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). In the genome of potentially pathogenic Bacteroides, Capnocytophaga, Corynebacterium, Fusobacterium, Pasteurella, Porphyromonas, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species, which are some of the most relevant bacteria in dog bite infections, ARGs against aminoglycosides, carbapenems, cephalosporins, glycylcyclines, lincosamides, macrolides, oxazolidinone, penams, phenicols, pleuromutilins, streptogramins, sulfonamides and tetracyclines could be identified. Several ARGs, including ones against amoxicillin–clavulanate, the most commonly applied antimicrobial agent for dog bites, were predicted to be potentially transferable based on their association with mobile genetic elements (e.g., plasmids, prophages and integrated mobile genetic elements). According to our findings, canine saliva may be a source of transfer for ARG-rich bacteria that can either colonize the human body or transport ARGs to the host bacteriota, and thus can be considered as a risk in the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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Review

Jump to: Research

30 pages, 939 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antimicrobial Resistance in Commensal Escherichia coli of the Porcine Gastrointestinal Tract

by Lorcan O’Neill, Edgar García Manzanilla, Daniel Ekhlas and Finola C. Leonard

Antibiotics 2023, 12(11), 1616; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12111616 - 11 Nov 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3981

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli of animal origin presents a threat to human health. Although animals are not the primary source of human infections, humans may be exposed to AMR E. coli of animal origin and their AMR genes through the food [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli of animal origin presents a threat to human health. Although animals are not the primary source of human infections, humans may be exposed to AMR E. coli of animal origin and their AMR genes through the food chain, direct contact with animals, and via the environment. For this reason, AMR in E. coli from food producing animals is included in most national and international AMR monitoring programmes and is the subject of a large body of research. As pig farming is one of the largest livestock sectors and the one with the highest antimicrobial use, there is considerable interest in the epidemiology of AMR in E. coli of porcine origin. This literature review presents an overview and appraisal of current knowledge of AMR in commensal E. coli of the porcine gastrointestinal tract with a focus on its evolution during the pig lifecycle and the relationship with antimicrobial use. It also presents an overview of the epidemiology of resistance to extended spectrum cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and colistin in pig production. The review highlights the widespread nature of AMR in the porcine commensal E. coli population, especially to the most-used classes in pig farming and discusses the complex interplay between age and antimicrobial use during the pig lifecycle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Impact and Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance in Veterinary Medicine, 2nd Edition)

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