Transmission of antimicrobial resistance from pigs to humans: trues and lies

Abstract

<p>Through the years, use of antimicrobials in livestock has been the subject of an endless debate about the appropriateness of using these important medicines in the veterinary sector. This is a highly controversial topic involving ethical issues on animal welfare and human health, as well as economic interests by the pharmaceutical industry, the food industry and various professional categories, including farmers, veterinarians, pharmacists and researchers. As a consequence of all these factors, the debate has been often vigorous but not always scientifically unbiased. The aim of this lecture is to review the state-of-the-art on transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) from pigs to humans with particular emphasis on specific risks that were overestimated by the scientific community in the past.</p>