Antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture: A global analysis of literature and national action plans

Since the establishment of a Global Action Plan (GAP) on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) (68th World Health Assembly, Geneva, Switzerland, 2015), most members of the World Health Organisation (WHO) have developed and implemented a National Action Plan (NAP) based on a One Health approach to AMR. Aquaculture, significant among the food producing sectors, has often been overlooked in AMR governance. We did a systematic review of 95 country NAPs and assessed the inclusion of aquaculture. We also reviewed the scientific literature from 1996 until April 2021 to retrieve data characterising AMR in aquaculture during the last 25 years. In our analysis, 37% of countries did not mention an aquaculture component within their AMR NAP. The South-East Asia Region had the highest implementation rate of AMR-aquaculture programmes. Our literature review indicated that most AMR-aquaculture related studies have taken place in China, followed by the United States of America and India. Beta-lactamases, tetracyclines, sulfonamides, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones were the most represented classes of antibiotics, with Vibrio spp. and Aeromonas spp. as the most investigated antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. This review highlighted the gaps in AMR-aquaculture governance and the progress made across WHO members. Countries are encouraged to (i) fulfil their commitments by developing and/or fully implementing the AMR NAP, (ii) further engage in the research, monitoring, and surveillance of antimicrobial usage and AMR within the aquaculture sector, and (iii) collaborate at national and international level for a concerted One Health approach.

Automated summary

Since the establishment of the Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), most WHO members have developed and implemented national action plans based on a One Health approach. However, the aquaculture sector has been overlooked in AMR governance. A systematic review of 95 country NAPs revealed that 37% did not mention aquaculture in their AMR plans. The highest implementation rate of AMR-aquaculture programs was found in the South-East Asia Region. Literature review indicated that China, the United States, and India have been the main focus of AMR-aquaculture studies. This review highlights the gaps in AMR-aquaculture governance and emphasizes the need for countries to fulfill their commitments, engage in research and monitoring of AMR in aquaculture, and collaborate for a One Health approach.