The "best practices for farming" successfully contributed to decrease the antibiotic resistance gene abundances...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Microbiology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Farms are critical hubs for the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes (ARGs).
• Reducing ARG dissemination is essential for public and animal health.
• Effective farm management strategies are needed to combat antibiotic resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a "best practices for farming" guideline on reducing ARG abundance.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in dairy farm environments.

Main Methods:

• A guideline promoting prudent antibiotic use and hygiene was implemented on 10 dairy farms.
• Fecal samples were collected from cows and calves before and after guideline implementation.
• Antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) were quantified using PCR and digital droplet PCR.

Main Results:

• ARG abundances were highest in lactating cows.
• Despite consistent antibiotic use, total ARG abundance, particularly for blaTEM and tetA, significantly decreased post-guideline.
• The study demonstrated a reduction in specific ARGs following best practice implementation.

Conclusions:

• Farming best practices, including prudent antibiotic use and improved hygiene, effectively reduce ARG abundance.
• Lactating cows represent a key target for interventions to control antibiotic resistance spread.
• Findings support the adoption of evidence-based farming practices to mitigate antibiotic resistance.