Overuse of antimicrobials in livestock farming introduces widespread challenges

Dong Nai Province, often referred to as the "livestock capital" of the country, previously faced significant challenges in managing and educating farmers against the unauthorized use of antimicrobials for their livestock populations. Notably, antimicrobials were in exceptionally high demand in the province in the past. As a result, livestock farmers were able to easily purchase antimicrobials in large quantities from agricultural supply and veterinary stores.

Driven by the belief that "what works for humans would also work for pigs and chickens," many local farmers resorted to administering high doses of human antibiotics to their livestock. One commonly misused product was the so-called "miracle drug" Ampicillin 500mg, which seasoned farmers claimed could immediately restore health to chickens showing symptoms of illness.

Notably, a significant portion of the local farmers use antibiotics to boost animals' immunity and stimulate growth. Nguyen Thi Thanh Mai, Deputy Director of the Dong Nai Province's Sub-Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health, noted that some farmers mixed antibiotics into animal feed as a preventive measure for their pigs and chickens. Consequently, this practice increased production costs, negatively impacted animal health, and posed risks to the well-being of consumers.

The Dong Nai Province's Sub-Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health has implemented various measures in response to this issue, including controlling veterinary drug sales, conducting training sessions for farmers, and signing commitments to reduce antibiotic misuse.

“To date, after extensive education and monitoring efforts, the use of antimicrobials for growth stimulation in the province has effectively ceased. However, farmers still have the habit of administering antimicrobials to their livestock without consulting local veterinarians officers. This misuse of drug remains a challenge, even for large-scale farms,” Deputy Director Mai explained.

Unpredictable weather patterns and frequent respiratory and digestive diseases necessitate the use of antimicrobials in livestock farming. The Livestock Association of Dong Nai Province has advised local farmers to strictly follow the established guidelines for antimicrobial use.

“Antimicrobials should only be the last resort, typically when livestock exhibit symptoms of illness. Farmers must consult veterinary professionals to ensure the proper dosage and duration of treatment. Prophylactic use of antibiotics should be avoided as excessive use can lead to antimicrobial resistance in the long term,” said Nguyen Kim Doan, Vice Chairman of the Livestock Association of Dong Nai Province.

Vietnam has prohibited the use of antimicrobials for growth stimulation in livestock since 2018. Beginning January 1, 2026, the livestock production sector will prohibit the use of antimicrobials for disease prevention. Moving forward, antimicrobials can only be used to treat diagnosed illnesses and must be prescribed by authorized veterinary professionals.

Antimicrobials remain an essential tool in livestock production, playing a crucial role in protecting livestock health. They protect animal welfare by preventing and treating diseases, alleviating pain, and reducing unnecessary mortality rates. However, their use must be responsible and strictly regulated to secure both animal health and public safety.

Access to the knowledge required for the correct use of antimicrobials is currently limited. A lack of essential information often leads to overdosing, which significantly impacts food safety and public health.

According to Dr. Ha Thuy Hanh, Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnam Farms and Agricultural Enterprises Association, antimicrobials are not a miracle solution for livestock farming. She further stressed that misusing antibiotics without understanding their benefits and consequences poses serious threats to the health of Vietnamese people and undermines opportunities for sustainable agricultural development.

“We have existing legal frameworks and sanctions to address the misuse of antimicrobials in livestock farming. However, a stricter level of management at the grassroots level is necessary. Although we have achieved considerable control over animal feed production facilities, veterinary drug stores, and livestock farms, further improvement at the local level is essential,” Dr. Hanh emphasized.

Antimicrobial resistance has become a major global concern for the World Health Organization. Health experts warn that without comprehensive management, antimicrobial resistance can emerge as humanity’s next major crisis. In addition to addressing the misuse of antimicrobials in human patients, controlling their use in livestock and aquaculture is a sustainable approach.

Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, Standing Vice Chairman of the Infectious Diseases Society of Ho Chi Minh City, highlighted the severity of antimicrobial resistance on a global scale, with a focus on its impacts on Vietnam. Notably, the WHO has adopted the slogan "No action today, no cure tomorrow" to highlight its importance.

“It is time to improve our educational and communication programs with the aim of raising awareness and preventing antimicrobial misuse across healthcare, livestock farming, veterinary medicine, and the community,” Dr. Khanh urged.

According to the Ministry of Health, antimicrobial resistance can potentially result in approximately 10 million deaths annually by 2050, with 89% of fatalities occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Without effective interventions, this trend is expected to escalate exponentially.

Furthermore, antimicrobial resistance increases treatment costs for patients and imposes a heavy burden on society.