Kolkata, India – A recent study conducted by the UK’s Royal Veterinary College in collaboration with the West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences (WBUAFS) has revealed a concerning trend among poultry breeders in West Bengal and eastern India. According to the research, poultry breeding companies are struggling to prevent bacterial infections in newly hatched chicks, leading to widespread antibiotic usage at an early stage of growth.
The study highlights the challenges faced by breeders in maintaining disease-free hatcheries, with a particular focus on bacterial infections that affect the health and growth of chicks. Experts say that poor biosecurity measures, inadequate vaccination programs, and environmental factors are some of the key reasons why bacteria continue to thrive in poultry farms.
“The inability to control bacterial infections in chicks is a significant issue. With limited preventive options available, poultry farmers are increasingly relying on antibiotics to ensure flock survival,” said one of the researchers from WBUAFS.
Antibiotics are widely used in the poultry industry to treat and prevent infections, but excessive usage raises concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The study warns that early antibiotic intervention may contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria, posing risks not just to poultry but also to human health.
The findings have prompted calls for better hygiene practices, improved vaccination programs, and stricter regulations on antibiotic use in poultry farming. Experts suggest that investing in alternative disease prevention strategies, such as probiotics, enhanced farm biosecurity, and genetic selection for disease-resistant breeds, could help reduce reliance on antibiotics.
As poultry farming continues to expand in India, addressing bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance remains a critical challenge. The study urges policymakers, veterinarians, and farmers to work together to promote sustainable and responsible poultry management practices.
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