Assessment of listing and categorisation of animal diseases within the framework of the Animal Health Law (Regulation (EU) No 2016/429): antimicrobial-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in cattle and horses.

The research focused on assessing antimicrobial-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (AMR SA) in cattle and horses, using criteria laid out in the Animal Health Law (Regulation (EU) No 2016/429). The study was inconclusive on whether AMR SA should be listed for Union intervention. Specific sections of criteria were not met, while others remain uncertain.

Assessment Method

• The research aimed to categorise antimicrobial-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (AMR SA) through the framework provided by the EU’s Animal Health Law (AHL).
• Evaluation was based on various criteria established within AHL, with specific attention to disease profile and impacts, eligibility for listing, categorisation linked to disease prevention and control rules, and finally species associated with the bacterium.
• The process of assessment follows a previously published methodology.

Outcomes and Conclusions

• The results are expressed as the median of the probability ranges provided by the experts. These probabilities show whether each criterion is fulfilled (lower bound ≥ 66%), not met (upper bound ≤ 33%), or whether there’s uncertainty about fulfilment.
• The study concluded it’s uncertain whether AMR SA can be considered eligible to be listed for Union intervention according to Article 5 of the AHL (60-90% probability).
• With regards to categorisation linked to the level of prevention and control as in Article 9 of the AHL, the research found that the bacterium does not meet the criteria in Sections 1, 2 and 4, but there’s uncertainty whether it meets the criteria in Sections 3 and 5.
• The types of animal species listed mainly include mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish in relation to AMR SA according to the criteria in Article 8.

Implication of Findings

• The findings suggest that there is a need for more research and data to accurately categorise AMR SA as per the AHL.
• The uncertainty surrounding the fulfilment of some criteria highlights the complexity of antimicrobial-resistant diseases in animals.
• The study’s findings will serve as a vital reference point for future researchers aiming to contribute to the fastidious arena of antimicrobial resistance.