Pennsylvania Surveillance for Antimicrobial Resistant-enteric Bacteria in Retail Food

Pennsylvania Surveillance for Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria from Retail Foods Abstract Antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens of animal origin, including Salmonella and Campylobacter species, is a danger to public health. Pennsylvania is home to large rural and urban populations, both in close proximity to major food production centers. As such, Pennsylvania provides a high leverage point for the detection of emerging antimicrobial resistance. Pennsylvania’s continued participation in the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) retail food surveillance provides two key benefits. First, the program contributes to the FDA’s regulatory oversight for antimicrobials, which directly benefits residents of Pennsylvania and the whole nation. Second, it strengthens integrated One Health surveillance for enteric bacteria, which can detect threats that may cross human and animal populations. By using whole genome sequencing to compare bacteria from food samples and patients, our outbreak investigations quickly lead to trace-back of contaminated products and prioritization of interventions such as facility inspections by regulators. Analyses of integrated genomics data from food and human sources also enhances surveillance for antimicrobial resistance in enteric bacteria. Key outcomes from our program strategy include better coordination and exchange of data and isolates with the FDA, better insights into severe infections acquired from food of animal origin, and improved timelines of the surveillance system. Additionally, our efforts will improve data quality and completeness of records and increase dissemination of NARMS findings to support One Health antimicrobial stewardship efforts in diverse settings.