Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Brucellosis Among High-Risk Occupational Groups

Brucellosis is a neglected but significant zoonotic disease that poses serious public health and economic challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to brucellosis among high-risk occupational groups in Bangladesh, including dairy workers, livestock handlers and butchers.

A cross-sectional study was conducted through face-to-face interviews using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. A total of 435 participants from five districts were randomly selected. The questionnaire covered socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of brucellosis, attitudes towards the disease and preventive practices. Descriptive statistics, univariable and multivariable logistic regression and correlation analyses were performed.

Overall, 186 (43%) of participants demonstrated good knowledge about brucellosis. The majority of respondents (96%) exhibited a positive attitude towards the disease, and 59% reported correct practices at their workplaces. Notably, 52.9% of participants were aware of brucellosis transmission routes, and 90.6% reported proper disposal of aborted animal materials. Dairy workers were significantly more knowledgeable (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11-3.63; p = 0.021) and demonstrated better practices (AOR = 4.69, CI: 2.30-9.88, p < 0.001) compared to butchers. Participants who had received training were significantly more likely to have good knowledge (AOR: 2.01; 95% CI: 1.12-3.61; p = 0.019) and to practice correct behaviours (AOR: 4.42; 95% CI: 2.11-8.83; p < 0.001) than those without training. A statistically significant, very weak positive correlation was observed between knowledge and practice scores.

This study highlights considerable gaps in knowledge and preventive practices among high-risk occupational groups in Bangladesh. Targeted educational interventions and comprehensive control programmes are urgently needed, especially for livestock handlers, butchers and individuals with lower educational levels, to reduce the risk of animal-to-human transmission and control the spread of brucellosis in the country.