Reducing transport times and thoroughly cleaning vehicles, equipment and spaces where animals are loaded and unloaded are among the measures considered effective in reducing the transmission of resistant bacteria during animal transport, according to an opinion of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published on 25 October.
The scientific opinion concerns poultry, pigs and cattle. EFSA examined all modes of transport, including road transport.
Among the risk factors identified, lack of space, hygiene and travel time are the main contributors to the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
The impact of EFSA’s assessment goes beyond animal health and welfare, as many bacteria can be transmitted from animals to humans. When these bacteria become resistant to antimicrobials, effective treatment of infectious diseases in humans can be compromised.
Last 7 September, EFSA had already published five opinions on animal welfare during transport, recommending that journey times be kept to a minimum (see EUROPE 13016/4). These studies are intended to help the European Commission prepare its proposal, expected in 2023, revising the legislation on animal welfare. Link to the opinion: https://aeur.eu/f/3ul (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)