Bovine dermatophilosis: awareness, knowledge, perception and drug usage practices amongst cattle herders in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Economic and zoonotic importance of bovine dermatophilosis in tropical countries and Nigeria in particular cannot be underestimated. We therefore conducted a cross-sectional study to assess cattle breeders’ awareness, perceptions and practices with regard to bovine dermatophilosis in Oyo State. Methods: The survey was conducted from June to December 2017 across the four geopolitical zones, which includes; Ibarapa, Oyo/Ogbomosho, Oke ogun and Ibadan. A total of 400 cattle breeders were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The data obtained were analysed on SPSS for frequency and percentages. Results: The results revealed high awareness of dermatophilosis among the breeders. However, 388/400 (97%) were not aware of its’ zoonotic importance. Nearly 49% engaged in self-treatment, while only 44/400 (11%) sought for veterinary intervention. Majority (97%) of the respondents disclosed to have used drugs for treatment. However, 94% did not adhere to manufacturer’s instruction while 8/400 (2%) were unaware of manufacturer’s instruction. More than 90% were unaware of withdrawal period in administering drugs, 16/400 (4%) observed it and 16/400 (4%) did not always observe withdrawal period when administering drugs. About 96% agreed that the drugs were effective while 8/400 (2%) were not sure about drugs effectiveness. Conclusions: Despite the high awareness of dermatophilosis by cattle rearers in Oyo state, the knowledge, practices and perception of farmers about the disease are still generally very low. Therefore, further education for the cattle breeders and the general public on zoonotic importance of bovine dermatophilosis is required.