National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (U.S.).
Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases.

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

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Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection