A recent study conducted in Côte d'Ivoire has highlighted a significant gap in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding anthrax among professionals in the livestock sector. The study, which took place from June to September 2023, involved 450 participants from the municipalities of Port-Bouët, Abobo, and Anyama. These individuals were surveyed using a structured questionnaire to assess their understanding of anthrax, a serious zoonotic disease that has previously caused human cases in the country.
The study revealed that 99.1% of participants were men, with a mean age of 39.4 years. Only 21.6% of the participants had previously heard of anthrax, indicating a low level of awareness about the disease. The findings also showed that knowledge was inadequate among 82.9% of participants, attitudes were unfavorable among 67.3%, and practices were inadequate among 50.4%. These results suggest that there is a significant need for education and training on anthrax among livestock professionals in Côte d'Ivoire.
The level of knowledge about anthrax varied significantly according to occupation, educational level, and age. Livestock farmers and shepherds were found to be the least well-informed, with only 6.7% demonstrating satisfactory knowledge compared to 22.1% among buyers and resellers. This disparity highlights the importance of targeted interventions to address the specific needs of different groups within the livestock sector.
The study also found a strong correlation between knowledge and attitudes, with a correlation coefficient of 0.767. However, the relationship between knowledge and practices was weaker, with a correlation coefficient of 0.286. This suggests that while increasing knowledge about anthrax may lead to more favorable attitudes, it may not be sufficient to change behaviors and practices.
The findings of this study have important implications for public health policy and practice in Côte d'Ivoire. The low level of awareness about anthrax among livestock professionals highlights the need for education and training programs to address this gap. Additionally, the weak relationship between knowledge and practices suggests that interventions should focus not only on increasing knowledge but also on changing behaviors and practices.
Anthrax is a serious zoonotic disease that can have significant impacts on human and animal health. In Côte d'Ivoire, the disease has previously caused human cases following epizootics among small ruminants. The study's findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing anthrax, including education and training for livestock professionals, as well as measures to prevent and control the disease.
The study's results are consistent with previous research on anthrax in other countries. For example, studies in Ghana and Zambia have also found low levels of awareness about anthrax among livestock professionals. The findings of this study highlight the need for continued research and collaboration to address the challenges posed by anthrax and other zoonotic diseases in Africa.
Key points
- 82.9% of livestock professionals in Côte d'Ivoire have inadequate knowledge of anthrax.
