“Antibiotic resistance is a human and animal health crisis,” says Tommy Heffernan.


Recognising good and bad bacteria Tommy Heffernan, a veterinary consultant with microbiology company Precision Microbes in Ireland, says antibiotic resistance is a human and animal health crisis says, “bacteria have been around since the beginning before the dinosaurs. These micro-organisms are part of every ecosystem on our planet and ourselves. So, while we worry a lot about harmful bacteria, we must also recognise the


benefit of many good bacteria in our biome. “With the discovery of penicillin in 1929 by Alexander Fleming, antibiotics have transformed modern medicine. Although bacteria are simple celled structures, they are innovative and designed to survive. “Unfortunately, overuse of antibiotics has led to antibiotic resistance, where these life-saving medicines are beginning to no longer work against some of our deadliest pathogens. “Antibiotic resistance is a human and animal health crisis, often now called a one health crisis. We need to protect these precious resources by using them less and more prudently. “It is estimated by 2050, globally, we can expect 10 million deaths annually from multi-resistant bacterial infections. On our farms, this will also have a devastating effect on our livestock and livelihoods. “We need new solutions and ways to reduce usage. We must remember healthy animals are more productive, and the focus must shift to prevention. “At Precision Microbes we are turning the challenge on its head, recognising the power of beneficial bacteria to compete and promote better animal health. We are working with good bacteria and harnessing the power of nature for a better future,” he concludes.


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