Survey on attitude, practice, and antibiotic usage pattern of livestock farmers: Implications of antibiotic resistance

Antimicrobial resistance is compromising the potential of livestock systems. The misuse and abuse of antimicrobial drugs are significant drivers of resistance. This study aims to document knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antimicrobial use in livestock systems and identify associated livelihood factors. The survey used physical and online validated self-designed questionnaires to collect information on antibiotic usage patterns and awareness among farmers in Nigeria. The study included 130 livestock farmers, comprising 84.6% poultry farmers, 9.2% beef farmers, and 6.2% dairy farmers. Of the participants, 71.5% were males and 28.5% were females. 50.0% of the farmers disagreed that antibiotics can treat all animal diseases, but 98.5% believed that antibiotics can treat infections. Additionally, 96.9% were aware of the side effects associated with antibiotic usage, and 96.2% knew that Antibiotic resistance is the loss of antibiotic function. During the survey, 65.4% of farmers intended to use leftover antibiotics, and 70.0% still unconsciously used antibiotics despite being aware of their public health effects. Furthermore, 58.5% of farmers did not follow evidence-based antibacterial therapy. Out of all the participants, 89.2% took advice from other farmers while choosing antibiotics. The study found that despite a high level of awareness about antibiotic use and resistance, there are significant gaps in behavior and decision-making among farmers that may lead to antibiotic resistance. Farmers still intend to use leftover antibiotics despite awareness of their impact on public health.