Work

Prevalence and Molecular Epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase–Producing Escherichia coli and Effects of Antimicrobial Use in Multiple Pig Industry Sectors in Korea

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: (ESBL-EC) were investigated across multiple pig industry sectors in Korea. In this study, animal developmental stages and antimicrobial usage policies on farms were also considered. Methods: A total of 6,288 non-duplicated samples were collected from pig farms, slaughterhouses, and their personnel from three provinces in Korea between 2020 and 2022. Antimicrobial susceptibility and ESBL gene characterization were performed on the samples. Results: isolates had antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates of 80.4%, 47.2%, 32.6%, 36.7%, 43.4%, 62.4%, and 72.1% to ampicillin, piperacillin, cefazoline, ciprofloxacin, cotrimoxazole, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline, respectively. AMR rates were lower in the finishing stage pigs than in the lactating stage pigs and tended to decrease during animal development for most antimicrobials. AMR rates were higher in pig farms with a customary antimicrobial use policy than in those with a low-level antimicrobial use policy. Conclusions: The findings highlight the significance of elucidating AMR networks among humans, animals, and the environment. Prudent antimicrobial usage and continuous AMR monitoring in the pig industry are crucial to safeguard food safety.

Source: Annals of Laboratory Medicine

DOI: 10.3343/alm.2025.0173

Authors: Young Ah Kim, Hyunsoo Kim, Young Hee Seo, Kyungwon Lee

Institutions: National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Yonsei University, Yonsei University Health System

Language: English

Topic: Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria

Subfield: Molecular Medicine

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention