Yao Akpo, Aretas B N Tonouhewa, Traore Alkoiret, Marc T Kpodekon
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Abstract
Background and aim: African animal trypanosomiasis (AAT), transmitted by tsetse flies, severely constrains livestock productivity in sub-Saharan Africa. In Benin, limited governmental control initiatives and widespread drug misuse have raised concerns about emerging trypanocidal resistance. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of cattle farmers in the Atacora and Donga departments of northern Benin and identify behaviors contributing to the persistence and drug resistance of AAT.
Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September to December 2024 among 201 cattle farmers selected through stratified random sampling across five districts. Data were collected using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed with R software employing descriptive statistics and comparative tests (χ2, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis).
Results: Awareness of tsetse flies and their role in AAT transmission was high (84%), but only 24% recognized insecticide-based vector control as an effective method. The predominant control strategy involved trypanocides - mainly diminazene aceturate (81%) and isometamidium chloride (71%) - with 99% of participants administering these drugs. Notably, 42% sourced trypanocides from illicit markets, and 22% practiced self-medication. Most farmers (56%) treated their cattle twice yearly, yet 65% failed to observe withdrawal periods, and 59% reported therapeutic failures. Only 12% had received formal training in AAT management.
Conclusion: Despite high disease awareness, poor adherence to recommended control practices and the prevalent misuse of trypanocides, particularly through informal markets, pose serious threats to sustainable AAT management. There is an urgent need for integrated risk communication and policy-driven interventions promoting responsible drug use and vector control in northern Benin.
期刊介绍：
Veterinary World publishes high quality papers focusing on Veterinary and Animal Science. The fields of study are bacteriology, parasitology, pathology, virology, immunology, mycology, public health, biotechnology, meat science, fish diseases, nutrition, gynecology, genetics, wildlife, laboratory animals, animal models of human infections, prion diseases and epidemiology. Studies on zoonotic and emerging infections are highly appreciated. Review articles are highly appreciated. All articles published by Veterinary World are made freely and permanently accessible online. All articles to Veterinary World are posted online immediately as they are ready for publication.
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