Poultry Farming Antibiotic Use and Antimicrobial Resistance: A Critical Challenge

Strategic Insights -

A recent study in Nigeria reveals alarming rates of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among poultry farmers. The research, led by Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), identified a significant knowledge gap among farmers about AMR and its health risks. The study's findings highlight the urgent need for targeted education and stricter antibiotic regulation to mitigate AMR risks in poultry farming.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study surveyed 200 poultry farms in Enugu State, Nigeria, and found that 90.5% of farmers used antibiotics, primarily for treating infections (80.5%) and for growth promotion or prophylaxis (61%).
  • The most commonly used antibiotics were ampicillin (75%), ciprofloxacin (71.5%), and doxycycline (71%), with monthly administration being prevalent (48%).
  • 89% of respondents believed antibiotics promote poultry growth, and 65% were unaware of AMR, while only 16% recognized its health risks.
  • The heavy reliance on antibiotics, particularly ampicillin, raises concerns about beta-lactamase selection amid Nigeria's carbapenem resistance issues.
  • The lack of AMR awareness among farmers highlights the urgent need for targeted education and stricter antibiotic regulation to mitigate AMR risks in poultry farming.
  • The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing antibiotic use practices and promoting awareness about AMR among poultry farmers.

Statistics:

  • 90.5% of poultry farmers used antibiotics, primarily for treating infections and growth promotion.
  • 80.5% of farmers used antibiotics to treat infections.
  • 61% of farmers used antibiotics for growth promotion or prophylaxis.
  • 75% of farmers used ampicillin as their primary antibiotic.
  • 71.5% of farmers used ciprofloxacin as their primary antibiotic.
  • 71% of farmers used doxycycline as their primary antibiotic.
  • 48% of farmers administered antibiotics monthly.
  • 89% of respondents believed antibiotics promote poultry growth.
  • 65% of farmers were unaware of AMR.
  • 16% of farmers recognized AMR health risks.

Sources:

  • Investigating the factors influencing antibiotic use practices and their association with antimicrobial resistance awareness among poultry farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology, 2025,5.
  • Cambridge University Press, publisher of Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology.
  • DOI: 10.1017/ash.2025.10141 (free access to the journal article).