U.S. Limits Antibiotics Use In Livestock to Prevent ‘Superbugs’

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will prohibit the use of a class of antimicrobial drugs in livestock, citing concerns that overuse of the drugs could promote the development of antibiotic-resistant pathogens that could infect humans. Beginning April 5, the FDA will limit the use of cephalosporin in cattle, swine, chickens and turkeys, allowing the antibiotic to be used to treat illness but not for disease prevention. Studies have linked the prevalent use of such drugs in livestock — mainly to prevent disease and promote weight gain — to the creation of disease-resistant “superbugs” that can spread to humans. In 2008, the FDA banned the use of cephalosporin for livestock, but withdrew the plan after industry opposition. The new proposal will allow exceptions, including approved limited doses when prescribed or administered by veterinarians. While public health advocates supported the FDA decision, they say it deals with just one aspect of the use of antibiotics in animals and does not address the use of antibiotics in animal feed.