Echinococcosis in Tambool, Central Sudan: a knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) study

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Echinococcosis (EC) is a chronic neglected zoonotic parasitic disease in Sudan, with high prevalence in domestic animals and a notable human infection rate from the G6 camel strain.
• The G6 camel strain of Echinococcus granulosus is the primary cause of human echinococcosis in Central and South Sudan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning echinococcosis among residents near Tambool city, Central Sudan.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three villages around Tambool city, involving 300 households.
• Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire covering socio-demographics and KAP related to echinococcosis in humans, animals, and the environment.

Main Results:

• A significant majority (68.7%) of participants had never heard of echinococcosis.
• Among those aware, knowledge (73.4%) and attitudes (80.9%) were generally positive, but practices were poor (68%), increasing the risk of parasite transmission.
• Knowledge was linked to marital status, and practices to occupation.

Conclusions:

• Effective control and prevention of echinococcosis require a multidisciplinary One Health approach.
• Interventions should address the significant knowledge gaps and poor practices identified in the studied population.