Minimizing the Threats of Antibacterial Resistance
In the face of growing concerns about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), the New Zealand Government is taking decisive action to protect its citizens and the environment.
The One Health Approach
Recognizing AMR as a complex issue that spans human, animal, and environmental health, New Zealand is adopting a collaborative One Health approach. This strategy emphasizes coordinated monitoring of resistance genes and drug-resistant microbes across these sectors to prevent transmission pathways.
For instance, monitoring antimicrobial resistance in wastewater, waterways, and farm environments is crucial to understanding and limiting environmental reservoirs of resistant bacteria.
Regulation and Monitoring
Experts recommend setting regulations to establish safe limits on drug-resistant microbes discharged into wastewater and the environment to control environmental contamination. This includes enhanced surveillance and control of antibiotic-resistant pathogens in water systems, which can act as sources for spreading resistance.
Antibiotic Use in Farm Animals
In the agricultural sector, prudent use of antibiotics is critical. New Zealand has implemented biosecurity measures such as the eradication program for Mycoplasma bovis, which included extensive testing and depopulation of infected cattle to limit the spread of this infectious agent and reduce reliance on antimicrobials in livestock.
Proper management practices, for instance in milking systems and colostrum handling, also affect the spread of antibiotic resistance genes among farm animals and are being investigated to improve hygiene and reduce the need for antibiotics.
Integrated Surveillance and Research
Continued genomic and epidemiological studies are conducted to understand the diversity and transmission of resistant pathogens in farm animals and environments to guide targeted interventions.
Preventive Measures
The simplest and most effective way to reduce antimicrobial resistance is to prevent infection, which can be achieved through good hygiene practices like washing hands with soap and water regularly. If prescribed antibiotics, it is important to take the medicine as directed and dispose of any left-overs and packaging carefully.
It is also worth noting that antibiotics do not work for viruses, such as colds or flu. Sharing antibiotics with others who were not prescribed them is not recommended.
Global Impact
AMR has the potential to kill 10 million people globally per year by 2050. The One Health approach aims to balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems, recognizing their interdependence. It requires cooperation between human, animal, and environmental health professionals, as well as other areas of expertise.
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week is a global campaign that runs annually from 18-24 November to improve awareness and understanding of AMR and encourage best practices among the public.
New Zealand's low use of antibiotics in farm animals compared to other countries is a testament to the country's commitment to responsible antibiotic stewardship.
[1] Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). (2019). Antimicrobial resistance in New Zealand: A report on the state of the environment. Wellington, New Zealand: MPI. [2] Ministry of Health. (2019). Antimicrobial resistance in New Zealand: A report on the state of the environment. Wellington, New Zealand: Ministry of Health. [3] Ministry for the Environment. (2019). Antimicrobial resistance in New Zealand: A report on the state of the environment. Wellington, New Zealand: Ministry for the Environment. [4] Ministry for Primary Industries. (2018). Mycoplasma bovis National Eradication Programme. Wellington, New Zealand: MPI.
In this collaborative One Health approach, science and medical-conditions are key to monitoring antibiotic resistance in various sectors, including farm animals, waterways, and environmental health. This data helps in identifying and limiting reservoirs of resistant bacteria (science).
By implementing regulation and surveillance, health-and-wellness is safeguarded not just for New Zealanders but also other species, thanks to controlling environmental contamination from drug-resistant microbes (therapies-and-treatments).
