Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic use in chicken farming in a rural area of Viet Nam, 2023–2024

Abstract

Objective: Antibiotic misuse in animal husbandry contributes to antimicrobial resistance, a major public health concern. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) regarding antibiotic use in chicken farming among residents of a rural community in northern Viet Nam. Methods: A cross-sectional study combining quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted from October 2023 to August 2024, comprising a survey of 264 chicken farmers and 20 in-depth interviews. Results: Overall, 211 (79.9%) respondents had incomplete knowledge about antibiotic use, 161 (61.0%) exhibited attitudes that could potentially contribute to inappropriate antibiotic use, and 217 (82.2%) reported unsafe practices related to antibiotic use. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, annual household income, farming method, farming system, educational attainment, poultry disease experience and chicken feeding practices were independently associated with one or more KAP outcomes. Discussion: Inappropriate antibiotic use was common among farmers. Community-based training, improved veterinary support and stronger regulations are needed to promote rational antibiotic use and reduce the risks of antimicrobial resistance.