Assessment of Awareness of Livestock Producersabout the Basics of Proper Animal Treatment and Vaccination in North and West Kordofan States

Abstract

The Study was conducted in the states of North and West Kordofan in five localities, to assess the awareness of livestock producers on the basics of the correct use of veterinary drugs and vaccines, and to show the possibility of harmful effects when misused. A study sample of 234 livestock producers was selected using stratified random sample methods and Chi-Square test. The information was collected by direct questionnaire procedures. The results showed that, a total of 84.3% of the producers are treating their animals by themselves. Only 15.3% of the producers are seeking the help of veterinarians. There is no significant difference (P >0.05) among localities for number of producers depending only on their knowledge for treating their animals. 76.9%of producers buy the veterinary drugs and medicines from veterinary pharmacies which are operated by unauthorized and un-qualified persons. The study also showed that 44.9% of livestock producers do not vaccinate their animals regularly. Most of the livestock producers 61.5% are vaccinating their animals in autumn season; where 75.6% of them refer that to diseases outbreak in this season. The results also showed that, the use and circulation of medicines is often not under direct veterinary supervision, and that posing a risk to public health.