Analysis of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices for the Determination of Silent Risks of Zoonotic Disease Exposure Among Dairy and Abattoir Workers in Bangladesh

Author(s): Md Mamunur Rahman, Md Tauhidul Islam, Marzia Rahman, Mst Sanjida Safawat, Nasrin Sultana Juyena.

Background: Zoonotic infections pose a significant occupational health risk to animal handlers in Bangladesh. Brucellosis, tuberculosis, and anthrax are endemic, yet in-depth epidemiological investigations at the handler-host interface are sparse. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) about zoonotic infections among Bangladeshi dairy cattle handlers and slaughterhouse workers. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 272 dairy cattle handlers and 112 slaughterhouse workers in four upazilas, namely Savar, Muktagacha, Shahjatpur, and Karnaphuli, was undertaken. Data on demographic information and KAP regarding the prevention of zoonotic diseases were collected using structured questionnaires. Results: The majority were male, 30-50 years old, with 6-15 years of work experience. Although 67.9% of the slaughterhouse workers had heard of the term "zoonoses," only 17.7% of dairy cattle handlers reported a zoonotic disease. There were significant knowledge gaps regarding transmission modes (65.4% ignorant), preventive measures (41.2% ignorant), and biosecurity practices (46.7% of farm workers and 100% of abattoir workers were ignorant). Glove use was observed only in 0.4% of farm workers, boots in 17.7%, and bare hands in 24.6% during parturition of animals. Alarmingly, 43.8% of abattoir workers considered it ethical to slaughter sick animals for needy consumers, and 77.7% admitted to doing so. Logistic regression revealed that age significantly impacts the knowledge and practices of slaughterhouse workers, with employees aged 40-50 showing better outcomes. Gender also had a small effect, with female workers having a higher positive attitude. Education, experience, and training, particularly over 20 years, were strongly associated with improved outcomes. Conclusion: This research reveals significant knowledge gaps and unsafe practices among high-risk occupational groups. Immediate educational interventions on biosecurity practices and the use of personal protective equipment are necessary to limit the spread of zoonotic diseases in these high-risk occupational settings in Bangladesh.