Infections from antibiotic-resistant ‘superbugs’ are on the rise among pets across the United States, experts warn.
From bacteria that ‘colonizes the skin’ of its victims to ear infections and persistent strains of E.coli and salmonella, veterinary practitioners say these hard-to-fight afflictions are becoming increasingly common.
While the chances of these bacteria infecting humans may be low, the experts say it’s possible for the bacteria to jump across the species – especially if you’ve been bitten.
Infections from antibiotic-resistant ‘superbugs’ are on the rise among pets across the US, experts warn. Clinics are seeing, on average, at roughly one case of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius per day, which can ‘colonize’ skin of dogs and cats
Infections such as the methicillion-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius are popping up among animal patients at worrying rates, experts say.
‘Some of these bacteria may be causing infection in the animals, while others may just be present with no problems noted,’ said veterinary dermatologist Dr Jason Pieper, a veterinary clinical medicine professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Clinics are seeing, on average, at roughly one case of the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius per day.
This type of infection is known to ‘colonize’ the skin of dogs and cats.
And, Pseudomonas ear infections, antibiotic-resistant E. coli species and salmonella have become a problem.
These have been found in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts.
Antibiotic resistance has been on the rise in the last few decades, with similar problems seen in human populations as well.
Among pets, the expert says the increasing resistance may be linked to antibiotic overuse.
‘I think a big problem is people giving antibiotics to animals when it’s not indicated, or when it’s not necessary,’ Pieper said.
From bacteria that ‘colonizes the skin’ of its victims to ear infections and persistent strains of E.coli and salmonella, veterinary practitioners say these hard-to-fight afflictions are becoming increasingly common
‘If your patient is going into surgery and there’s a huge risk, then it’s prudent to give antibiotics.
‘But in other circumstances, it’s better not to.’
According to Pieper, veterinarians who issue antibiotics that are too strong could also be contributing to the issue.
While it’s possible for these infections to spread to humans from their pets, the expert says the chance is low.
People who are immunosuppressed or have been bitten, however, are at higher risk.
While the chances of these bacteria infecting humans may be low, the experts say it’s possible for the bacteria to jump across the species – especially if you’ve been bitten. Stock image
Over time, the expert says humans have seen some success in fighting these bacterial ‘superbugs’ – and, he says similar practices could help to squash them in animals too.
‘We have decreased the incidence of methicillin bacterial infections in people largely by using antibiotics more responsibly,’ Pieper said.
‘I remember a time when I would always be prescribed antibiotics for the flu. Now, physicians are not prescribing antibiotics for viral infections, which don’t respond to antibiotics.
‘I feel the veterinary community needs to take a lesson from this and also start practicing the responsible use of antibiotics.’