Common Barriers, Attitudes, and Practices of Veterinary Practitioners Regarding Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship in Chattogram, Bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract The perceived risk of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens creates the necessity for understanding the role of the prescriber groups. Hence, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among veterinary practitioners to assess their understanding regarding antimicrobial prescribing and the issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock. We collected responses from 100 veterinarians engaged in the large animal, poultry, and pet animal care practices. Proportions were calculated for categorical variables and the results were visualized. We revealed two key barriers: a lack of enough information and of training on the proper prescription of antimicrobials. Prescribing a wide variety of antimicrobials and doing incomplete courses of antimicrobial treatments were two very important causes pointed out by the respondents for the development of antimicrobial resistance. A number of highest-priority critically important antimicrobials (HP-CIAs) of human health were found to be used by veterinary practitioners. In addition to clinical features like types of organisms and severity of the disease, the availability of drugs in the local market and the economic conditions of farmers have the potential to influence the decisions of veterinarians in prescribing antimicrobials. The professional development of veterinarians and the maintenance of strong coordination are crucial to ensure the proper engagement of veterinarians as the front-line fighters for tackling the AMR issue.