To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of traditional poultry farmers in Hossaina town regarding antimicrobial usage (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Approach:
Study Area: The research was conducted in Hossaina town, central Ethiopia, from October 2023 to June 2024, focusing on the poultry production sector.
Study Population: The study involved 57 individuals engaged in poultry production across 19 conventional farms.
Key Findings:
Antimicrobial misuse in livestock can lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria and bioaccumulation of antibiotic residues in food.
Inadequate education and awareness among farmers contribute to the misuse of antimicrobials.
Weak enforcement of regulations allows easy access to veterinary drugs without professional oversight.
Interpretation:
The findings highlight significant gaps in knowledge and practices related to antimicrobial use among poultry farmers, which may exacerbate public health issues related to AMR.
Limitations:
Limited sample size may not represent the broader poultry farming community.
The study is geographically restricted to Hossaina town, which may not reflect conditions in other regions.
Conclusion:
Understanding the KAP of poultry farmers regarding AMU and AMR is essential for developing targeted interventions to promote responsible antimicrobial use.