Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
infection. This could result in a relapse of the condition or, more seriously, a
chronic infection, which could be diffi cult or impossible to treat if the bacte-
ria develop resistance to the antibiotic.
Care must be exercised to ensure that antibiotics, as well as other drugs,
are properly used and not overused. Mastitis and certain respiratory diseases
are among the few examples of disorders for which there are no vaccines.
While management practices can minimize the occurrence of these diseases,
antibiotics are needed once an infection is established.
Certain forms of antibiotics can upset normal body functions. Some may
“sterilize the gut” (that is, kill the benefi cial bacteria that both aid in digestion
and compete with harmful bacteria and fungi), making animals susceptible to
enteric upsets and infections. Many shepherds give yogurt (which contains
cultures of benefi cial digestive bacteria) to a lamb after antibiotic therapy or
illness to reestablish the “friendly” bacteria.
Antibiotics are often used when they are of no benefi t whatsoever, as in
the case of diseases caused by viruses. When the exact cause of sickness is
unknown, there is a temptation to give a shot, usually a wide-spectrum anti-
biotic, to see if it helps. Ideally, any illness should have an accurate diagnosis
to see if any antiserum or vaccination is available and what, if any, antibiotic
treatment would be effective.
ANTIBIOTIC USE:
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE
The availability of antibiotics should not encourage improper
sanitation practices or “fi re-engine” treatment of diseases that
can be prevented through proper management and vaccination.
There is concern that improper use of antibiotics can give rise to
new strains of drug-resistant bacteria that pose a threat to both
humans and animals. Physicians and veterinarians have both
noticed that antibiotics that were once effective at low doses must
now be given at much higher doses to both humans and animals to
accomplish their purpose.
