Assessment of Biosecurity Status and Farmers' Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Related to Antimicrobial Use and Resistance in Poultry Farms in Hawassa City and Yirgalem Town, Sidama Region, Ethiopia

Background Biosecurity measures and appropriate antimicrobial use must be maintained in order to prevent antimicrobial resistance which is significant public health concern today. This study, therefore, assessed the biosecurity practices and farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antimicrobial use and resistance in Hawassa and Yirgalem poultry farms. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2024 - June 2025 on 100 (Hawassa, 80; Yirgalem, 20) poultry farms selected randomly. Biosecurity practice and the KAP of poultry farmers were assessed using a pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed via descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results The results revealed that internal biosecurity practices (79.4%) were generally better than external practices (59.75%), leading to an overall biosecurity score of 63.7%, which was slightly below the global average of 64.3%. Among the internal biosecurity measures, vaccination, cleaning, and disinfection scored the highest. External biosecurity issues were identified in chicken and feed purchasing, farm location, and the use of protective clothing, which was inadequate. Although 98% of the farmers had heard of antibiotics, only 48% a demonstrated moderate understanding of antimicrobial resistance, and only 25% followed proper antimicrobial use practices. Biosecurity status was significantly associated with occupation (p < 0.05), and likewise, KAP scores were significantly influenced by education level. Conclusion This study highlights important gaps in external biosecurity and responsible antimicrobial practices among poultry farmers, offering valuable insights for future improvements. Strengthening biosecurity on poultry farms can enhance poultry health and antimicrobial resistance prevention.