Dairy farmers' levels of awareness of antibiotic use in livestock farming in Pakistan

Antimicrobial resistance due to the irrational and non-sustainable use of antimicrobials poses a serious threat to animal health, human health and urban food security. This study aimed to access the knowledge and perceptions of dairy farmers regarding antimicrobial use and misuse in Lahore, Pakistan. This is the first study regarding antibiotic misuse in Lahore, Pakistan. A random sample of 270 dairy farmers from urban and suburban areas of Lahore participated in an interview-based survey conducted in 2019–20. The results were analyzed using SPSS version 16. About 22% of farmers do not consult a veterinarian, 32.9% do not follow correct dosage instructions and 39% discontinue treatment once the disease signs subside. Moreover, 40% of farmers were unaware of the dangers of misusing antibiotics and admitted to saving leftover antibiotics for future use. Alarmingly, over 20.7% of respondents share antibiotics with friends/farmers and 43% sought advice from non-veterinarian sources. Furthermore, 90% of farmers perceived self-medication as more economical than consulting a veterinarian. Dairy farmers have a wrong perception of antibiotic efficacy, use, expertise of veterinarians and cost of antibiotics. The absence of a food policy and lack of antibiotic use guidance is a serious gap in Pakistan. Antibiotic dispensing laws need to be developed and strictly implemented. Awareness campaigns need to be launched so that farmers get knowledge regarding the uses, overuse and misuse of antibiotics. A holistic approach is essential to address the potential food security crisis caused by non-sustainable farming practices. Policymakers must take action to bridge the gap in the Pakistani food supply chain and promote the sustainable use of antimicrobials/antibiotics.

Muhammad Farhan, Namra Awan, Amina Kanwal, Faiza Sharif, Muhammad Umar Hayyat, Laila Shahzad, Gul Zareen Ghafoor