Antimicrobial prescription practices and opinions regarding antimicrobial resistance among veterinarians in Palestine 2024

A cross-sectional study conducted in Palestine investigated the antimicrobial prescription practices and knowledge of 358 veterinarians. The majority were male (92.3%) and aged 31-40 (47.1%) or under 30 (42.3%). The study found that most veterinarians did not overprescribe antimicrobial agents, but 41.3% used them in 41-60% of cases. Most respondents acknowledged antimicrobial misuse, and 71.2% felt there was inadequate supervision of AMU. AMR was seen as a serious issue by 99.0%, with improper prescription habits being a major cause (81.7%). Recommendations to combat resistance included conducting sensitivity tests, enhancing veterinary oversight, promoting biosecurity, and enforcing stricter regulations on antimicrobial sales and use. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to create a robust framework for antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary practice.