National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System
(NARMS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Antibiotic
Resistance - Does the use of antibiotics to promote
growth pose a public health risk?
The use of antibiotics to promote growth is widespread
in food animal production. Antibiotics used for growth
promotion increase the pressure for bacteria to become
resistant. To address this public health problem, the
World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended that
antibiotics not be used for this purpose. It is determined
that this practice is unsafe for the public's health
(World Health Organization).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333, U.S.A
Tel: (404) 639-3311 / Public Inquiries: (404) 639-3534 / (800) 311-3435