Occurrence of zoonotic tuberculosis in occupationally exposed high-risk groups in Peshawar, Pakistan

To determine the occurrence of active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) due to Mycobacterium bovis in abattoir workers, butchers, livestock farmers, and veterinarians and to document their knowledge and practices regarding bovine TB (bTB).

A cross-sectional study was conducted among abattoir workers, butchers, livestock farmers, veterinary doctors, and veterinary assistants. Sputum samples were collected from the respondents with a chronic cough and data on sociodemographic conditions, knowledge, and practices regarding TB were obtained. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.

A total of 141 abattoir workers, 317 butchers, 50 livestock farmers, five veterinary doctors, and three veterinary assistants took part. Four of 16 coughing abattoir workers and one of 50 coughing livestock farmers were positive for M. bovis by polymerase chain reaction analysis. Duration of work as an abattoir worker was significantly associated (p<0.05) with prevalence of zoonotic TB. Age, education, and type of work carried out by workers were not significantly associated with zoonotic TB. None of the abattoir workers, butchers, and livestock farmers had undergone any sort of formal training related to their work. The knowledge of abattoir workers, butchers, livestock farmers, and veterinary assistants regarding transmission of bTB from animals to humans and the symptoms of TB in humans was very poor. Most of these workers did not use protective equipment and appropriate safe working techniques and were considered at high risk of acquiring zoonotic TB.

Zoonotic TB is a significant public health issue among professionally exposed groups in Peshawar, Pakistan, and suggests a need for further detailed investigations of the disease in this and similar areas.