Antibiotics are widely used in food-producing animals. This use contributes to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in food-producing animals. These resistant bacteria can contaminate the foods that come from those animals, and persons who consume these foods can develop antibiotic-resistant infections.

Resistance: All animals carry bacteria in their intestines. Antibiotics are given to animals. Antibiotics kill most bacteria. But resistant bacteria survive and multiply.

Spread: Resistant bacteria can spread to…

• animal products

• produce through contaminated water or soil

• prepared food through contaminated surfaces

• the environment when animals poop

Exposure: People can get sick with resistant infections from…

• contaminated food

• contaminated environment

Impact: Some infections cause…

• mild illness

• severe illness and may lead to death

Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection