Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: An underestimated pathogen in veterinary medicine in Italy

The increasing drug resistance of Acinetobacter (A.) baumannii is a growing concern globally. This bacterium, prevalent in hospitals, is responsible for multi-resistant infections and has been identified by the WHO as a priority pathogen for new antibiotic development. While there is extensive information on human isolates, data on animal isolates are scarce and fragmented based on limited clinical cases and genomic analyses. The impact of resistant strains on public and veterinary health is challenging to assess due to a lack of data. However, the potential impact on public health cannot be underestimated. Therefore, it is imperative to strengthen surveillance of A. baumannii in domestic animals, livestock, and wildlife. The growing presence of this pathogen in veterinary clinical samples is alarming, especially given the increasing interaction between animals and humans. Recognizing animals as potential reservoirs is crucial for understanding pathogen transmission dynamics, given their capacity for zoonotic transmission. With the rise in the number of animals testing positive for multi-resistant bacteria, monitoring A. baumannii in the animal population is vital to prevent the pathogen's spread and protect public health. A review of studies conducted in Italy on the topic underscores the role of pets, livestock, and foods of animal origin in the transmission of A. baumannii and Acinetobacter spp. Further animal research is urgently needed to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of spread and resistance. This review underscores the need to explore this area, providing crucial insights for public health and infectious disease management within a One Health context.