Shaw urges caution in use of chemicals

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Audley Shaw, is urging farmers and fisherfolk to use antimicrobials wisely.

Antimicrobial are chemicals used to prevent and treat infections in humans, animals and plants. However, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a major source of concern globally, as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat, and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.

Shaw was speaking at the virtual launch of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week on November 15, 2021 which was observed under the theme 'Spread Awareness, Stop Resistance'.

He stated that animal diseases can significantly affect food production, food security, the livelihood of farmers, and the health and safety of consumers.

He noted that the use of antimicrobials in agriculture contributes to the spread of AMR and undermines the effectiveness of veterinary medicine. The minister also emphasised the need for a multisectoral approach to mitigate the spread of pathogens along the production chain, distribution, sale and consumption of food.

"It is estimated that in just 10 years' time, 24 million more people, many of whom are in low-income countries, may be forced into extreme poverty as a result of AMR," said Shaw.