Understanding Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Brucellosis in the Agro-Pastoral Region of Djelfa, Algeria.

BACKGROUND

Brucellosis is one of the most important zoonoses threatening both human and animal health worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Algeria is among the most affected countries, particularly in the Steppic region, according to recent estimates.

METHODS

This study was conducted to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice in one of the most affected areas in this region, the department of Djelfa. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between March 22, 2024, and May 22, 2024.

RESULTS

Results showed that of the 664 participants who consented and completed the questionnaire, 639 (96.2%) reported having heard of brucellosis mainly through an infection of a friend or family member (33.23%) or through discussion (33.02%). Among these respondents, 58.4% demonstrated a high level of knowledge (p < .0001), while 59.47% exhibited a positive attitude (p < .0001), and 51.64% of the 122 livestock owners reported good practices (p > .05). Notably, 77.31% of the participants reported consuming unpasteurized milk. In addition, direct or indirect experience with brucellosis increases the odds of adopting good practices (OR: 3.63, 95% CI: 1.72-7.67, p < .001); whereas, male sex decreases the odds (aOR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06-0.39, p < .0001). Age also played a significant role, with individuals aged 41-50 years (aOR: 2.39, 95% CI: 1.13-5.01, p = .0219) and dog ownership (aOR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.02-2.72, p = .0403) being the only factors significantly associated with participants' knowledge and attitudes toward brucellosis, respectively.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that although awareness of the disease is high, levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices remain moderate, which could be a barrier to efficiently prevent and control brucellosis spread. This highlights the need for targeted education and interventions to improve our understanding of the disease and to address high-risk behaviors that contribute to its transmission in the region.