The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) recently convened leaders from the animal agriculture industry in Atlanta, Georgia, to meet with public health experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The multi-day One Health discussions aimed to address critical issues such as antimicrobial resistance, foodborne illnesses, waterborne transmission and H5N1 preparedness. These conversations come ahead of the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance, scheduled for September 26, 2024, in New York City.
This meeting continued the dialogue initiated in 2018 and built on the progress made in previous sessions, such as the identification of joint research opportunities to understand salmonella transmission routes. The 2024 gathering included experiential learning tours of CDC laboratories and discussions on worker safety and the emerging threats of fungal pathogens.
NIAA Executive Director J.J. Jones emphasized the importance of these discussions in strengthening collaboration between animal agriculture and public health sectors. He noted the success of the event in fostering relationships that will advance food system safety and One Health outcomes, such as reducing foodborne illness and mitigating the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
The discussions allowed leaders from various agricultural organizations to share insights with CDC scientists, enhancing their understanding of on-farm and ranch practices. Dr. Alexandra Medley, associate director for antimicrobial resistance at the CDC, underscored the importance of this collaboration in combating antimicrobial resistance. She expressed appreciation for the openness of the organizations in exchanging perspectives, which will drive future efforts in advancing human, animal, and environmental health.
Participants in the meeting included representatives from key organizations such as the American Veterinary Medical Association, National Pork Board, Meat Institute, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, and the National Institute of Antimicrobial Resistance Research & Education (NIAMRRE).
NIAA will continue this critical dialogue at the 14th Annual NIAA Antibiotics Symposium, set to take place from November 19-21, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. For more details and registration, visit AnimalAgriculture.org.
