Antimicrobial Resistance in New Zealand—A One Health Perspective

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasing global threat that affects human, animal and, often less acknowledged, environmental health. This complex issue requires a multisectoral One Health approach to address the interconnectedness of humans, animals and the natural environment. The prevalence of AMR in these reservoirs varies widely among countries and thus often requires a country-specific approach. In New Zealand (NZ), AMR and antimicrobial usage in humans are relatively well-monitored and -understood, with high human use of antimicrobials and the frequency of resistant pathogens increasing in hospitals and the community. In contrast, on average, NZ is a low user of antimicrobials in animal husbandry systems with low rates of AMR in food-producing animals. AMR in New Zealand’s environment is little understood, and the role of the natural environment in AMR transmission is unclear. Here, we aimed to provide a summary of the current knowledge on AMR in NZ, addressing all three components of the One Health triad with a particular focus on environmental AMR. We aimed to identify knowledge gaps to help develop research strategies, especially towards mitigating AMR in the environment, the often-neglected part of the One Health triad.

Antibiotics-use in utero and early-life and risk of chronic childhood conditions in New Zealand: a methods protocol using linked data

“…The focus of this study is on the effects of antibiotics on the host, but the results are also relevant to the broader issue of antibiotic over-use and its link with increased microbial resistance. New Zealand has comparatively low rates of antimicrobial resistance (34,35). However, resistance has steadily increased, and experience gained from other countries suggests that this will become more common in New Zealand, raising patient-risk and costs for the health system (36).…”

Improving Human Diets and Welfare through Using Herbivore-Based Foods: 1. Human and Animal Perspectives

“…Antimicrobial drug use in farm animals has received attention globally because of the potential for development of antimicrobial resistance, including in humans. Evidence indicates, however, that misuse in humans is the main driver for emergence and persistence of antimicrobial resistance in humans [192]. New Zealand has a low use of antimicrobials in food producing animals compared with other developed countries, but 'there is room for improvement' [193].…”

Welly boots and spreadsheets: A rough guide to production animal medicine for medical writers

“…16 The treatment and prevention of mastitis account for approx imately 85% of antimicrobial use on New Zealand farms. 24 Introducing blanket dry cow therapy (administration of intra mammary antimicrobials to the whole herd at the end of the milking season) revolutionised mastitis control by curing current infections and preventing new infections in the dry period. 25 A further advance came from teat sealants and selective dry cow therapy, dramatically reducing antibiotics on farms without impacting the health and welfare of the cow or milk quality.…”