Report on the use of antimicrobial agents in animals

The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) has published a report that presents the findings of the first annual reporting of data on the use of antimicrobial agents in animals, providing a global and regional analysis based on data ranging from 2010 to 2015. The template used to collect data was designed to allow all OIE member countries to participate in annual data collection, even if quantitative data on antimicrobial agents used in animals are not available.

Of the 130 member countries that completed the template, 96 (74%) indicated that they do not authorize antimicrobial agents for growth promotion in animals. Twenty-five member countries provided a list of antimicrobial agents authorized for growth promotion, in which Tylosin and Bacitracin were most frequently quoted. Colistin was mentioned by 10 of 25 member countries.

A total of 89 of 130 member countries (68%) submitted to the OIE their quantities on the use of antimicrobial agents in animals for years ranging from 2010 to 2015. The source of data varied among countries, with the most common sources being data collected from wholesalers, retailers, and import reports. The main route of administration in animals was the oral route, and tetracyclines and macrolides were the most commonly reported antimicrobial agents used; differences however, were observed between OIE Regions.

The report authors concluded that the findings “represent a remarkable first step in better understanding the global use of antimicrobial agents in animals.” Additionally, the report shows the need to provide additional support to member countries to improve their national monitoring systems. Detailed interpretation of the data also needs further development and in the future, the OIE database should allow countries to provide their information through an electronic portal.

Report (pdf)