ABSTRACT:
The inappropriate use of antimicrobials, coupled with inadequate knowledge and misconceptions, in livestock farms can contribute to the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), leading to increased mortality and a substantial economic burden in the public health sector. This cross-sectional questionnaire study evaluated antimicrobial use among 65 commercial and developing pig farms in Gauteng Province, South Africa, from 2021 to 2022. It also assessed farmers’ perceptions and alternative practices concerning antimicrobial use and AMR. Descriptive analysis was applied to determine the frequencies of demographics, practices, and perceptions. Then their associations with the farming category (commercial vs. developing) were explored using the Chi-square or Fisher’s test. Associations across variables regarding usage, perceptions, and alternative practices, as well as individual categorization, were analysed by multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and multiple factor analysis (MFA). A significantly higher proportion of developing farmers than commercial farmers engaged in inappropriate practices that can be associated with AMR (p<0.05). They rarely discussed antimicrobial dosages and the risk of AMR with veterinarians, and they poorly understood or observed withdrawal periods. This category of farmers also used antimicrobials for prophylaxis, which implies overuse of drugs. Moreover, alternative measures such as cleaning and disinfection, administration of vaccines, and adherence to vaccination frequency and regimes were categorised as poor in developing farms. There is a need for effective access control of antimicrobials used in the livestock industry, and authorities should ensure that farmers benefit from food safety and biosecurity advice. Additionally, targeted research should aim at alternative and applicable practices that mitigate the use of antimicrobials and benefit livestock productivity.