World Animal Protection Organization has called for urgent action to curb the excessive use of antibiotics in livestock farming, a major contributor to the global rise of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
This warning came during a virtual event held in observance of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024.
A Research Manager at World Animal Protection Dr. Patrick Muinde said there was a critical link between industrial animal agriculture and the alarming rise of AMR.
“In many intensive farming systems, antibiotics are routinely used not only to treat infections but to compensate for stressful and unhealthy living conditions,” he stated.
“This misuse accelerates the development of resistant bacteria, which can spread to humans via the food chain, direct animal contact, or environmental contamination,” Muinde said.
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites evolve to withstand medicines designed to combat them, leading to the emergence of “superbugs” that are resistant to multiple drugs. These superbugs pose a significant threat to both human and animal health.
The overuse of antibiotics in farming often as growth promoters or preventative measures for healthy animals has been identified as a major driver of this phenomenon. With global demand for livestock products projected to rise sharply in the coming decades, the need for immediate action is pressing.
The threat is particularly acute in regions like Africa, where industrial livestock farming is expanding rapidly. The growing reliance on antibiotics in these systems heightens the risk of AMR spreading through communities.
By 2050, the global consumption of meat and dairy products is expected to double, putting additional pressure on farming practices. Without intervention, the continued misuse of antibiotics in agriculture could undermine the effectiveness of life-saving medicines for both humans and animals.
At the same time, World Animal Protection outlined a series of actions for livestock stakeholders to combat AMR. Antibiotics should only be used when necessary, under veterinary supervision, and to treat diagnosed infections hence the routine use of antibiotics to boost growth or offset poor welfare practices must end.
Governments should enforce strict regulations to ensure judicious use of antibiotics and promote high animal welfare standards by improving living conditions, better nutrition, and alternative disease prevention methods like vaccination and biosecurity which could reduce reliance on antibiotics.
“This is not just about animals, it’s about protecting the effectiveness of antibiotics for everyone,” said Dr. Muinde.
“By reducing our reliance on antibiotics in farming and adopting humane and sustainable agricultural practices, we can secure a healthier future for both people and animals,” he added.
As the world observes WAAW 2024, World Animal Protection urges governments, farmers, veterinarians, and consumers to take collective action to safeguard antibiotics and combat the AMR crisis.
Together, these efforts can protect the planet and its inhabitants, ensuring life-saving medicines remain effective for generations to come.
By Joan Ogolla
