Use of Antimicrobials in Animal Health on the Island of Ireland
- Project start date: 28 February 2019
- Project status: Completed
- Project type: Food safety
- Discipline: Microbiology and food hygiene
- Author/s: Dr Aine Regan, Teagasc
- Collaborator/s: Prof Moira Dean, Queens University College and Dr Conor McAloon, University College Dublin
Research objective
This research project aimed to comprehensively explore the behaviours of farmers and veterinarians concerning the use of antimicrobials in livestock industries across the island of Ireland. Using an interdisciplinary and multi-actor approach, the study sought to identify current practices, attitudes towards antimicrobial usage, and the barriers and facilitators influencing responsible use. The ultimate goal was to develop effective interventions that promote sustainable practices and mitigate antimicrobial resistance in animal health.
Outputs
Research report
- Title: The use of antimicrobials in animal health on the island of Ireland: Knowledge, attitudes and behaviours
- Publication date: 29 September 2022
- Summary: This research project investigated antimicrobial use practices among farmers and veterinarians in meat and dairy production sectors across Ireland. Employing an interdisciplinary approach involving various stakeholders, the study assessed current practices, attitudes, and behavioural drivers related to antimicrobial use. The project applied theoretical frameworks such as the COM-B Model and Behaviour Change Wheel to design interventions aimed at improving antimicrobial stewardship and reducing resistance.
- Findings:
Current practices
- Conducted the first comprehensive review of veterinary antimicrobial use across all livestock sectors in Ireland.
- Identified significant knowledge gaps, particularly in Northern Ireland due to data aggregation issues.
Attitudes and awareness
- Assessed attitudes towards antimicrobial usage and resistance among farmers and veterinarians.
- Highlighted the importance of alternatives like biosecurity and vaccines in reducing antimicrobial reliance.
Behavioural drivers and barriers
- Identified factors influencing responsible antimicrobial use and adoption of alternatives.
- Recognised the need for targeted interventions to address behavioral barriers and leverage opportunities for change.
Tools and interventions
- Developed the Dairy Antimicrobial Usage Calculator to enable farmers to self-monitor antibiotic use and promote prudent usage.
- Introduced a training program in motivational interviewing for veterinarians to enhance engagement and promote sustainable practices.
- Recommendations:
Research and data collection
- Advocate for further research and data collection specifically focusing on antimicrobial use in less-intensive livestock sectors like sheep and beef.
Training and support
- Provide workshops and training programs for farmers and veterinarians on reducing antimicrobial use and adopting sustainable practices.
Policy and regulation
- Engage stakeholders in developing policies that support responsible antimicrobial use based on farmer and veterinarian input.
Behavioural interventions
- Implement and evaluate behaviour-change interventions using a multi-actor approach to maximize impact and sustainability.
Community engagement
- Establish thematic networks to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and share best practices in antimicrobial stewardship.
This research underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting responsible antimicrobial practices in livestock farming, offering practical tools and strategies to drive behavioural change and mitigate antimicrobial resistance risks in Ireland.
You can download the report below.
