Antibiotic-resistant E coli were detected in dung samples in a study carried out by the Department of Agriculture.

Some 157 dung samples were taken from dairy and suckler farms and, worryingly, the findings suggest that multiple drug-resistant E coli may contribute to anti-microbial resistance (AMR) acting as a reservoir and transferring resistance to other species.

“Commensal E coli were isolated from 70.7% of the samples (111/157), with 101 of these isolates shown to be fully susceptible to all antimicrobials tested,” the study said.

AMR is becoming an increasing area of concern, with plans to introduce stricter prescribing rules of oral animal wormers next year.

Study

A pilot study using environmental screening to determine the prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) and AMR in Irish cattle herds, also found levels of the causative agent of Johne's disease in herds, also known as MAP.

According to the study, one out of every 10 samples collected detected MAP, with a higher percentage of dairy than beef/suckler herds testing positive for the agent.

“The results highlight the importance of monitoring farm environments for Johne’s disease,” the study said.

“This disease is a growing concern for dairy and beef producers in Ireland, and sampling the farm environment may offer a useful means to rapidly screen for the presence of MAP.”

A national Johne's disease pilot programme has been in operation since 2014.

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