Abstract
Despite increasing evidence on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), there is limited literature on antimicrobial access and use in humans and animals in community settings globally. This study assessed knowledge and perceptions of AMR, as well as practices relating to the use of antimicrobials in humans and animals in Wakiso district, Uganda. This was a cross-sectional study among 418 participants that employed quantitative data collection methods. A structured questionnaire that included questions on knowledge, perceptions, practices related to AMR, and perceptions on access to antimicrobials in humans and animals was used. Data was analysed in STATA version 10. The majority of participants 63.6% (266/418) had heard about AMR mainly from family and friends 57.5% (153/266), and most 70.8% (296/418) were aware that resistant microorganisms cause infections that are difficult to treat. Most participants 62.7% (262/418) thought that they should complete the full dose of antimicrobials when on treatment. However, on the last occasion of antimicrobial use, 13.0% (44/338) revealed that they did not complete the full course of treatment. Participants who were single (APR = 1.12, C.I = 1.03-1.12, p-value = 0.01) and earning between 91 and 290 USD on average per month (APR = 1.12, C.I = 1.02-1.23, p-value = 0.02) were more likely to have completed a given antimicrobial course as compared to those who were married/cohabiting and earned less than 15 USD respectively. The majority of participants 60% (251/418) owned animals, and 81.3% (204/251) reported using antimicrobials mainly for prevention 61.3% (125/204) or treatment of sick animals 70.6% (144/204). Among the participants, 57.4% (117/204) reported not having sold or consumed animal products within a week after exposure to antimicrobials. Interventions to prevent AMR should adopt a One Health approach to address the gap in knowledge and practices relating to the use of antimicrobials in humans and animals.