Inappropriate Antibiotic Use in Nepalese Chicken Farms Threatens Public Health

Strategic Insights -

A new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science highlights the alarming rate of antibiotic misuse among small to medium-scale layer chicken farms in Nepal, exacerbating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Researchers from Agriculture and Forestry University conducted a survey of 180 poultry farmers in four districts, finding that antibiotics were used for treatment, prophylaxis, growth promotion, and viral infections, with only 39.1% of decisions based on laboratory reports. The study indicates that inadequate knowledge among poultry producers, poor biosecurity practices, and stressors in birds significantly contribute to increased antibiotic use.

Key Takeaways:

  • Antibiotics were used in 73.3% of responses, with 50.6% for treatment and 32.7% for prophylaxis.
  • Fluoroquinolones were the most used antibiotic (22.2%), followed by tetracyclines (19%) and macrolides (17.6%).
  • Only 39.1% of decisions regarding antibiotic usage were based on laboratory reports, while 25.8% relied on professional experience and 23.4% on necropsy findings.
  • Poor biosecurity scores and higher stress levels in birds significantly increased antibiotic use at the farm level.
  • The study highlights the importance of creating antimicrobial resistance awareness and promoting responsible use of antibiotics among farmers.
  • An integrated national AMR and food safety policy, including farmer education and strict guidelines, is essential to mitigate the issue.

Statistics:

  • 73.3% of responses reported the use of antibiotics.
  • 50.6% of responses used antibiotics for treatment.
  • 32.7% of responses used antibiotics for prophylaxis.
  • 22.2% of responses reported the use of fluoroquinolones.
  • 19% of responses reported the use of tetracyclines.
  • 17.6% of responses reported the use of macrolides.
  • 39.1% of decisions regarding antibiotic usage were based on laboratory reports.
  • 25.8% of decisions relied on professional experience.
  • 23.4% of decisions relied on necropsy findings.
  • 11.7% of decisions relied on telemedicine consultations.

Sources:

  • Research from Agriculture and Forestry University: "Drivers and patterns of antibiotic use in small to medium-sized chicken farms in selected districts of Nepal".
  • Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2025,12.
  • Publisher for Frontiers in Veterinary Science: Frontiers Media S.A.
  • Free version of the journal article: https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1570822.