Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Agriculture

Antimicrobial drugs, including antibiotics, are widely used in agriculture across all livestock sectors to treat and prevent infections in animals.  In Canada based on 2014 data, approximately 82% of antimicrobials that are important to human medicine were distributed and/or sold for use in food producing animals.  

What is antimicrobial resistance?

 It is the ability of microorganisms, commonly bacteria, to develop resistance to treatment with drugs, which previously worked effectively against them.  Bacteria are also very good at passing on this resistance information to other microbes, thereby spreading resistance more rapidly  

Any antibiotic use can lead to the development of resistance, but inappropriate use speeds up the development and spread.  Resistant bacteria can spread between animals and humans through contaminated food or by direct or indirect contact.

All of us have an important role to play in the prevention of further development of AMR.  Prudent antibiotic use in agriculture is a key component to address this serious global issue.

What actions is the Department of Agriculture & Land (DAL) taking?

NATIONAL COLLABORATION

Pan-Canadian Framework: Prince Edward Island (PEI) contributed from both Agriculture and Health in the development of the Pan-Canadian Framework for Antimicrobial Resistance. Our participation continues in the development of the subsequent Action Plan.

Health Canada: PEI through both DAL and the PEI Veterinary Medical Association
(PEIVMA) have been active contributors and collaborators with Health Canada throughout the policy and regulatory changes.

PROVINCIAL COLLABORATION

Department of Agriculture and Land has been working with Department of Health & Wellness and Health PEI to share information and develop common goals for action around AMR.

The DAL has been working closely with the PEIVMA to ensure our agriculture industry will be aware of the many changes in regards to access to antimicrobials across the country.

STEWARDSHIP

The DAL continues to support assurance programs and livestock enhancement projects through Growing Forward 1 and 2 initiatives in partnership with the federal government.  It is expected that the new Canadian Agricultural Partnership will also support AMR initiatives once the new funding model is in place April 1, 2018.

What changes are coming to antimicrobial access?

• View the important notice. Effective December 1, 2018.
•  Antimicrobials Requiring a Veterinary Prescription as of December 1, 2018

When should producers use antimicrobials?

Antimicrobials, specifically antibiotics, are fundamental in livestock production to prevent and treat infections caused by bacteria.  It is critically important to have an accurate disease diagnosis to prevent using antibiotics against infections caused by viruses and fungi in which they would be ineffective.

Your veterinarian can work with you to ensure you use the right drug for the right bug in the right dosage.  The route of administration and length of treatment are also extremely important.  Accurate treatment records should always be kept.

Other practices can help you avoid the need to use antibiotics such as:

• Biosecurity and infection control
• Vaccines
• Good quality nutrition
• Appropriate housing
• Genetics

Resources

• Government of Canada - Actions
• A Pan-Canadian Framework for Action
• Canadian Animal Health Initiative
• Fact Sheet:  Accessing and Selling Prescription (Pr) Veterinary Drugs - Health Canada
• Responsible use of Medically Important Antimicrobials in Animals - Health Canada

For more information, contact:

Dr. Carolyn Sanford
Provincial Veterinarian
PEI Department of Agriculture and Land
5th Floor Jones Building
Charlottetown
Email:  cjsanford@gov.pe.ca
Phone:  902-368-5660