Camel-Associated Antimicrobial Resistance: An Overlooked One Health Interface

Area of Science:

• One Health
• Microbiology
• Veterinary Public Health

Background:

• Camel-associated antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is underrecognized, especially in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and North Africa.
• Clinically significant resistance mechanisms (e.g., ESBLs, carbapenemases, colistin resistance) are present in camel populations.
• Molecular data suggest potential cross-species transmission between camels and humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of camel AMR within the One Health framework.
• To underscore the need for integrating camel production systems into national AMR surveillance and stewardship.
• To identify challenges and propose strategies for mitigating AMR risks associated with camels.

Main Methods:

• Review of available evidence on antimicrobial resistance in camel populations.
• Molecular analysis of camel and human isolates to assess similarities.
• Assessment of current AMR surveillance and stewardship frameworks in relation to camel production.

Main Results:

• Camel populations harbor clinically significant resistance mechanisms and multidrug-resistant clones.
• Molecular similarities between camel and human isolates indicate potential for cross-species transmission.
• Camel production systems are largely excluded from national AMR surveillance and stewardship frameworks due to data gaps and structural challenges.

Conclusions:

• Camels represent potential reservoirs for AMR, posing public health risks.
• Strengthening diagnostic capacity and implementing tailored antimicrobial stewardship for camels are crucial.
• Integrating camels into national and regional AMR action plans is essential to prevent further resistance amplification.