Public Health Awareness about EchinococcosisHydatidosis Among Professionals and the General Public in Urban and Rural Communities

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge of physicians, veterinarians and paramedical staff about zoonoses and Echinococcosis. In addition, it evaluated the level of awareness of urban and rural communities about zoonoses, Echinococcosis and health hazards from animals. Data were collected through a questionnaires and meat inspection in slaughter slab in Tambool area, as an example of rural slaughter facilities. The questionnaire also involved groups of specialists in medical fields, rural and urban communities, as follows: 300 physicians, 250 veterinarians, 200 medical assistants, 50 environmental and health workers. In addition to 100 animal owners and 100 housewife were included to represent the community. The questionnaires included questions related to zoonotic diseases, the Hydatid disease and health hazard from animals. The questionnaires were filled by the participants and analyzed using simple statistical methods of frequency and percentage. The information analysis and meat inspection of slaughtered animals in Tambool area revealed the following: (1) 40 camels out of 201 (19.9%) harbored Hydatid cyst. The cysts were found in camels' lungs; (2) 20 out of 195 sheep/goat, (10.2%) harbored cysticercus tenuicollis; (3) Inadequate knowledge about zoonoses and Echinococcosis revealed in all mentioned groups except the veterinarians requiresmore information to let the targeted groups achieve best health goals and (4) Misdiagnosis of Hydatid cysts was assumed, which requires more trainingfor meat inspectors. The study was concluded by designing an extension programs depending on requirements and limitations that were revealed in the questionnaire information analysis, and these programs can be broadcasted through TV after testing and improvement