A recent study from Carleton University has revealed troubling evidence that antibiotics used in livestock—not just those considered important for human medicine—may still pose a serious threat to public health.

The class of antibiotics in question, ionophores, is commonly used in poultry, pigs, and cattle to prevent disease and promote growth. Though long considered safe for human health due to their toxicity and lack of human medical use, researchers have now found a compelling link between ionophore use and the rise of resistance to critical antibiotics like tetracycline and vancomycin.

What Did the Study Find?

Published in mSphere, the research reviewed global genomic data from over 2,400 bacterial isolates across 51 countries. Findings showed:

• Ionophore-resistant genes (narA and narB) were present in a wide range of animal pathogens—and more than 500 human isolates.
• These genes are frequently carried alongside resistance to multiple medically important antibiotics, including erythromycin and aminoglycosides.
• Resistant bacteria were found not just in poultry, but in pigs, cattle, and in humans around the world.

Why It Matters

Resistance genes are often transmitted via plasmids, mobile DNA that allows bacteria to share resistance across species and environments. This means antibiotic resistance that begins on the farm could eventually affect infections in humans, even if the specific drug (like ionophores) is never used in people.

This emerging evidence challenges long-held assumptions and could influence future regulations around antibiotic use in food animals.
“We’re accidentally selecting for resistance to drugs that are important to humans,” said Dr. Alex Wong, senior author of the study. “This is an issue we need to pay more attention to.”

What You Can Do

At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we take antibiotic resistance seriously.

Our team is committed to:

• Educating patients on proper antibiotic use
• Avoiding unnecessary prescriptions that contribute to resistance
• Counselling on food safety and antimicrobial risks from animal products
• Helping families choose antibiotic-free and responsibly sourced food
• Advocating for antimicrobial stewardship in both human and animal health

Whether you’re dealing with a recurring infection or just want to make better food choices, our clinic offers holistic, evidence-based care.

• Antibiotic Resistance: A Community-Wide Issue

Antibiotic resistance doesn’t stay on farms—it reaches grocery stores, kitchens, and hospitals. That’s why public awareness, responsible prescribing, and policy reform are all essential.
Our advice? Read labels, ask questions, and talk to your doctor or pharmacist about antibiotics—whether they’re in your prescription or your dinner.

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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.