Knowledge and Perception of Antimicrobial Resistance in Aquaculture in the Nairobi River Basin, Kenya

Abstract

Increased food demand in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) has led to the intensification of production, underpinning environmental and health hazards such as increased water needs or misuse of antimicrobials. Epidemics of diseases still emerge often, necessitating the routine administration of antimicrobials to curb their spread. Sub-therapeutic concentrations of these medications persist in water and sediments for extended periods, creating favourable circumstances for developing and selecting resistant microorganisms and stimulating horizontal gene transfer. This study aimed at gaining an understanding of the knowledge and perception of the fish farmers towards antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to further responsible usage of antimicrobials and promotion of antimicrobial stewardship programmes. A study was undertaken using structured questionnaire interviews and face-to-face workshops to determine the Source, Exposure pathway and Main receptors (S-P-R) of antimicrobials along the Nairobi River basin. The majority of respondents (58%; n=18) were familiar with the term "antimicrobial resistance." However, in the last five years, fish diseases/infections on the farm were recognized as a concern, although not a major one (54%; n=15). This is supported by the fact that the majority of respondents (65%; n=20) reported having no specific training in fish health management. We also found that untreated or partially treated wastewater and solid waste disposal/scavenging are the major hotspots for human exposure to AMR. Findings from this study provide a baseline understanding of potential risk factors of AMR in aquaculture and will support the formulation of appropriate risk-management measures to prevent and control the spread of AMR.

Keywords

• Aquaculture
• antimicrobial resistance
• Nairobi River Basin
• farming

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