Authors
N Kosgei1; 1 Gene plus, Veterinary science research institute, Discussion
ABSTRACT Helminths cause significant losses through either a negative impact on production or increased mortality associated more with small ruminants and calves (Enejoh & Suleiman, 2017). Control aims to keep infections low, especially in the young, and decrease associated economic losses.The use of chemotherapeutic anthelmintics has been the primary choice of control due to high efficacies and ease of application. Recent studies, however, demonstrate irregular and haphazard use of these drugs, especially in developing countries.
Control of livestock helminths has relied mainly on the use of anthelmintics worldwide. However, recent trends including climate change, intensification of production systems and development of anthelmintic resistance threatens the control of helminths. This therefore means that all stakeholders involved in animal and human health have to be on guard regarding all practices old and new in place for helminth control.
This study was undertaken to assess farmer’s knowledge, attitudes and practices in regards to anthelmintic use in livestock in Buret sub county. The study was conducted in Tebesonik and Cheboin wards in Bureti sub county, Kericho County, Kenya. Structured questionnaires were administered to a total of 80 farmers through face to face interviews. Information on the farmers’ sources of knowledge, types of anthelmintics in use, alternative control strategies, frequencies of deworming, dosing strategies and types of farming systems was gathered through these questionnaires.
The demography of the target population was composed of 53% males and 47% females. Majority, 48%, had attained secondary level of education. Access to veterinary services was at 82 %. This comprised the main source of information for them amongst other sources including family members and social media. Synthetic (chemical) anthelmintics, was used by 90% of the population compared to 3 % that used herbal drugs. Extensive, paddock / free range system is still dominantly practiced compared to semi intensive and intensive systems.
