Treatment strategies and antibiotic usage practices in mastitis management in Kenyan smallholder dairy farms

Dishon Muloi, Eugine Ibayi, Sharon Nyotera, Hildah Kirimi, Abdullahi Abdi, Silvester Mutungwa, Abigael Chemutai, Arshnee Moodley. (1/1/2024). Treatment strategies and antibiotic usage practices in mastitis management in Kenyan smallholder dairy farms [Epidemiological survey].

Mastitis is a common driver of antibiotic use in dairy farms and is exacerbated in low-income settings by the lack of diagnostics and treatment strategies. This study assessed the decision-making process of animal health providers (AHPs) in managing mastitis in small-holder dairy farms in Kiambu County, Kenya. Data were collected from 114 AHPs on: (i) demographics (age, sex, education level, years of veterinary practice), (ii) decision-making process relating to management of clinical mastitis, (iii) antibiotic use practices (brands, frequency), and (iv) attitudes and perceptions towards udder health and mastitis management.