Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus prevalence and its association along the food chain: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) are present across the One Health continuum and pose a considerable risk for transmission along the food chain. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimates the prevalence of VRE colonization in livestock, food of animal origin, and in human populations.

Methods: Embase, MEDLINE and CAB Abstracts were searched for eligible literature. A total of 54 manuscripts passed inclusion criteria by providing prevalence estimates of VRE in a human population and at least one of either livestock or food. Random effects meta-analysis was conducted to determine prevalence estimates, and risk of bias in pooled estimates was assessed using funnel plots and Egger regression.

Results: Global pooled prevalence of VRE colonization was highest in poultry and poultry meat at 16% (95% CI: 6%-28%) and 15% (95% CI: 1%-39%), respectively. Human-associated VRE colonization was highest in livestock workers, with a pooled prevalence of 11% (95% CI: 2%-25%), and lowest in the general public at 2% (95% CI: 0%-3%). Meta-regression demonstrated that human VRE prevalence increased at a rate of 0.75% (95% CI: 0.46%-1.04%; P < 0.001) per 1% increase in livestock VRE colonization.

Conclusions: This meta-analysis established a clear link of VRE across One Health sectors. VRE colonization is likely elevated for those in contact with colonized animals or contaminated food products. Quality of evidence in pooled prevalence estimates was limited by publication bias and heterogeneity. The results of this study enhance calls for a One Health approach for mitigating the global burden of priority antimicrobial resistance pathogens.