Is the Level of Knowledge on Brucellosis Sufficient in the Highly Endemic Region

Abstract

Objective: Brucellosis is the most common zoonotic disease in the world. In this study, we aimed to investigate the awareness of brucellosis in Van province, the city where brucellosis is highly endemic. Material and Methods: This survey was conducted in the city center of Van from July 2014 to March 2015. Results: In our study, 987 people were included; 555 (56.2%) were females and 432 (44.8%) were males. Mean age of the participants was 26.8 +/- 8.3 years. 830 (84.1%) of the participants had previously heard of brucellosis. The rates of correct answers to the questions about brucellosis transmission were compared between the groups that were distinguished by educational level. Correct response rates were found higher in the group with a high school degree or higher to all questions about food-related brucellosis transmission except the question of brucellosis transmission by cheese produced from raw milk. The rate of being informed about the fact that brucellosis can be transmitted by raw milk cheese was 78.7%, but the level of knowledge on other transmission routes was low among all participants. 296 (30%) of the participants had been engaged in animal husbandry in the past and 155 (15.7%) were still involved. The level of knowledge on brucellosis transmission during animal husbandry processes, brucellosis signs in animals and the procedures to be performed for protection against brucellosis was very low. Conclusion: The results of our study showed that the level of knowledge on brucellosis is low in Van province. In order to protect public health and also prevent loss of income in the livestock sector, it is necessary to raise societal awareness about brucellosis.