Authors : Y.A. Geidam, U.I. Ibrahim, H.A. Grema, K.A. Sanda, A. Suleiman and D.L. Mohzo
Abstract: Antibiotics are still deemed necessary for the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases in farm animals intended for food production and to protect public health from food-borne diseases. One possible approach to the resistance problem is the appropriate use of antibiotics for prevention and treatment of infections. A survey was conducted to determine the antibiotic usage in poultry farms and the brand of antibiotics sold over the counter in drug outlets. Reputable poultry farms and drug outlets were identified and questionnaires were administered to 20 poultry farmers. A yes or no type of response was developed to assess level of reported purchase and use of antibiotics without prescriptions. Majority of the respondents (80%) agreed to have purchased an antibiotic without a prescription and the most commonly named antibiotics used by poultry farmers was Tetracycline (Oxytetracycline) 36.5%. It was available in all the drug stores (100%) visited. This was followed by amino glycosides (Neomycin) with 15.2% in poultry farms and 27.2% in drug stores. The widespread access to antibiotics without prescription with resultant inappropriate use, may lead to increased development of resistant strains.
Y.A. Geidam, U.I. Ibrahim, H.A. Grema, K.A. Sanda, A. Suleiman and D.L. Mohzo, 2012. Patterns of Antibiotic Sales by Drug Stores and Usage in Poultry Farms: A Questionnaire-Based Survey in Maiduguri, Northeastern Nigeria. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 11: 2852-2855.