Antibiotic use in aquaculture has declined dramatically in some regions through vaccination, but remains high in others. The welfare and public health implications require continued attention.
The Norwegian aquaculture antibiotic reduction story demonstrates that massive reduction in antimicrobial use is achievable without welfare compromise when structural disease prevention replaces reactive treatment. Vaccination addresses the root disease causes; sick fish that need treatment still receive it. The welfare and public health case for this model is clear: less antibiotic use means less resistance development, while disease prevention means fewer sick fish. The challenge is extending this model to other major aquaculture producing countries where antibiotic use remains high. Consumer purchasing pressure for products from low-antibiotic systems, combined with import requirements in major consumer markets, are the most effective levers for driving global reduction.