Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice of livestock farmers in northwest Iran regarding myiasis.

BACKGROUND

Myiasis is the infestation of tissues and organs in vertebrates, including humans and animals, by the larvae of dipteran flies that occurs in subtropical and tropical areas.

METHODS

This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of livestock farmers across 12 counties in Ardabil province regarding myiasis in 2024, employing ANOVA and T-tests to analyze the relationships with various variables.

RESULTS

The study found a statistically significant difference in knowledge, attitude, and practice mean scores among individuals influenced by education level, residency, livestock contact, disease history, and animal interactions. In this study, a significant direct correlation was found between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.12, p < 0.001), knowledge and practice (r = 0.08, p < 0.001), as well as attitude and practice (r = 0.34, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Research in Ardabil province shows that increasing awareness and training for youth on disease prevention and control can significantly enhance livestock disease management. The county health network should develop a strong educational initiative for livestock farmers and their families to raise awareness about myiasis and encourage proactive measures over time.