Prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in food-producing animals

To evaluate the diversity of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) genes among food-producing animals, 48 isolates of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli isolates were obtained from rectal samples of broilers, layers, beef cattle and pigs, at the slaughterhouse level. ESBL-carrying E. coli were isolated from 60.0% of individual broiler rectal samples, 5.9% of layers, 12.5% of beef cattle and 3% of pigs. One ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae was isolated from a broiler. The ESBL-positive E. coli isolates from broilers harbored various ESBL genes: bla (SHV-12), bla(CTX-M-2), bla(CTX-M-14), bla(CTX-M-15) and bla(CTX-M-44). The plasmid DNAs were analyzed by restriction patterns. Homogeneous band patterns were yielded in those of K. pneumoniae and E. coli isolates harboring the bla(CTX-M-2) gene from different farms. No genetic relation between the 2 CTX-M-14 ESBL-producing strains was found by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, although 2 plasmids in these strains, obtained from different broiler farms, were similar to each other. This study provides evidence that the proliferation of CTX-M-producing E. coli is due to the growth of indigenous CTX-M-producing strains and the possible emergence of strains that acquired CTX-M genes by horizontal transfer in different broiler farms. CTX-M-producing coliforms in broilers should be controlled due to the critical importance of cephalosporins and the zoonotic potential of ESBL-producing bacteria.     

Unorthodox procedures and the Guide — A reply

Extract

Madam: — Dr Piper has hit the nail on the head when he says that all practitioners use unorthodox procedures from time to time, and are therefore now obliged to ensure that the client is aware of this and also understands what is being done. This is an extension of Section VII A of the current Guide to Professional Conduct (Responsibilities with Animal Remedies). I do not believe it would be considered unreasonable by the majority of the profession.     

MAF takes over TB scheme — A reply

Madam:— I refer to the letter by Joe Tyndel “MAF takes over Tb scheme” (N.Z. vet. J. 34: 138). While not disagreeing with the sentiment of Dr Tyndel's letter which is a welcome first public correspondence about MAF moves towards commercialisation, I do wish to correct a major inaccuracy contained in the letter.     

Brucellosis — a reply

Extract

Madam:- I appreciate the opportunity to comment on Mr Wallace's letter concerning the possible risks of disastrous results consequent upon too early withdrawal of vaccination with Brucella abortus Strain 19. He is certainly not alone in expressing this concern.     

Trends in antimicrobial use in Marine Harvest Canada farmed salmon production in British Columbia (2003–2011)

Marine Havest Canada has significantly reduced its antimicrobial usage in salmon farming over the last 8 years. Change has come about largely through improvements in production, health management, and livestock selection. However, antimicrobial treatments are still required for stomatitis and bacterial kidney disease. Lack of efficacious vaccines and the limited number of licensed antimicrobials available to the industry continue to be of concern.