Bayer pleased with results of independent studies on poultry antibiotic
Bayer said it is pleased at the results of two independent scientific studies that show banning the use of Baytril(R) 3.23% enrofloxacin for the treatment of air sacculitis, a pneumonia-like infection in poultry, could potentially compromise food safety and have a significant negative impact on human health.
The studies, conducted at the University of Georgia by Dr. Scott Russell and Dr. John Glisson, validate Bayer's position that the prudent use of Baytril for the control of mortality associated with E. coli in chickens and mortality associated with E. coli and P. multocida (fowl cholera) in turkeys helps to ensure a safe food supply.
The study conducted by Dr. Glisson showed that when evaluating treatment options, Baytril was the only antibiotic found to be effective in eliminating air sacculitis from broiler chickens.
Dr. Russell's study showed that Campylobacter counts were significantly higher on chicken carcasses derived from flocks that tested positive for air sacculitis. In addition, chickens with air sacculitis typically have lower body weights. Weight variations significantly contribute to errors during processing that lead to increased levels of bacterial contamination on the processed poultry meat.
"These studies strongly support the continued therapeutic use of Baytril for poultry and clearly identify the human health benefit, a factor that has not yet been fully considered by FDA," said John B. Payne, president and general manager, Bayer HealthCare LLC, Animal Health Division.
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