Stakeholders’ Perceptions About Antimicrobial Use Practices and AMR Issues in the Italian Poultry Industry

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens global public health. Overuse and improper use of antimicrobials (AMs) contribute to AMR insurgence. Some estimations calculate that two-thirds of the future increase in antimicrobial use (AMU) worldwide will be in animal production. Improving the management of AMU on farmed animals is critical for dealing with AMR. In Italy, the principal poultry industry association implemented a national plan that reduced consistently AMU in broiler production. This study interviewed poultry farmers in the Italian most producing regions to investigate their perceptions and motivations to adopt more prudent AMU practices. The results highlight a good level of awareness towards AMR issues and that the reduction of AMU in poultry production is perceived as an improvement in farming practices and professional skills of farmers and veterinarians.