Rising concerns over antimicrobial resistance in Europe: ECDC and EFSA report

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have released their latest findings on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans, animals, and food, highlighting persistent challenges and some positive developments. The report focuses on key pathogens, including Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Escherichia coli, and covers data from 2022 to 2023.  

The surveillance data indicates that resistance to commonly used antimicrobials remains alarmingly high across Europe. Notably, pathogens like Salmonella and Campylobacter show significant resistance to drugs such as ampicillin, tetracyclines, and sulphonamides. While resistance in Salmonella found in laying hens is relatively low, E. coli resistance in animals is frequently reported.  

Of particular concern is the increasing resistance to ciprofloxacin, a crucial fluoroquinolone antibiotic. The report notes that more than half of the European countries reported rising resistance rates in Salmonella enteritidis and Campylobacter jejuni. This trend is alarming as fluoroquinolone-resistant non-typhoidal Salmonella has been classified as a high priority by the World Health Organization due to its public health implications.  

Although carbapenem resistance remains relatively rare, the detection of carbapenem-resistant E. coli in animals and food calls for heightened vigilance. The EFSA plans to issue opinions in 2025 on the status of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales in the food chain, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring of this critical public health threat.  

Despite the high levels of resistance reported, there are signs of progress in some areas. Nearly half of the participating European countries have documented a decline in macrolide resistance in Campylobacter species among human cases. Furthermore, the resistance of Salmonella typhimurium to penicillins and tetracyclines has also shown a downward trend.  

Encouragingly, significant improvements have been reported in the susceptibility of E. coli in food-producing animals, with a notable decrease in the prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC-producing strains over the past decade.  

The report underscores the importance of a One Health approach in addressing antimicrobial resistance. Coordinated actions are essential, including promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials, enhancing infection prevention and control measures, and investing in research for new therapeutic options. National policies must also be robust to effectively combat AMR.  

The findings are made accessible through the ECDC Infectious Disease Surveillance Atlas, which provides data on waterborne and foodborne antibiotic resistance related to various pathogens.  

In conclusion, while the report presents a mixed picture of antimicrobial resistance in Europe, it highlights the urgent need for continued vigilance, coordinated prevention strategies, and ongoing research to combat this significant public health challenge.    

Source:  

EFSA