USE OF ANTIBIOTICS AND THE FARMERS' AWARENESS LEVEL OF ANTIBIOTICS RESISTANCE OF BROILER FARMS

Abstract

The ever-existent measures of antibiotic application in the broiler industry remain a controversial tool for improving livestock health and accelerating growth. The main objective of the study is to find the use of antibiotics and the farmers' awareness level of antibiotic resistance in broiler farms. This study is designed to investigate antibiotic usage practices and assess the awareness levels of broiler farmers regarding antibiotic resistance. A total of 280 participants from various broiler farms across the region were recruited from February 2023 to August 2023.  Eligible participants included farm owners, managers, and workers directly involved in broiler farming activities.  Data were collected from 280 participants through a designed survey. The study revealed a predominance of medium-sized farms, housing between 5,000 to 20,000 broilers, accounting for 60% of participants, followed by large farms with over 20,000 broilers at 25%. Basic biosecurity protocols were the most commonly implemented management practice among participants, reported by 50% of respondents, while 35% reported moderate implementation, and 15% reported advanced biosecurity measures. Tetracycline emerged as the most commonly used antibiotic (45%), often administered orally (60%) for disease prevention (40%). Enrofloxacin (30%) and Amoxicillin (25%) were also prevalent, with oral administration being the preferred route. Despite the predominance of seeking veterinary advice (70%), a notable proportion reported self-medication (20%) or seeking advice from fellow farmers (10%). It is concluded that antibiotic usage remains prevalent in commercial poultry farming, with tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, and beta-lactams being commonly employed. While seeking veterinary advice predominates, there's a need to address gaps in access to veterinary services and promote responsible antibiotic stewardship among farmers.