Antimicrobial Resistance
Overview
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when organisms are resistant to antimicrobial agents that would usually be used for treatment of an infection. Antimicrobial resistance develops when organisms are exposed to antimicrobial agents through clinical therapy and use in the agricultural setting. The overuse, misuse and abuse of antibiotics is the leading factor that contributes to the continued development of antimicrobial resistance. Use of antibiotics in the agricultural setting to promote the growth of feed animals also impacts the development of antimicrobial resistance.
How antimicrobial resistance spreads
Antimicrobial resistance can be transmitted from person-to-person, from organisms that are persistent in the environment, or from resistant bacteria that contaminate food.