Zoonotic risk practices in rural households: An analytical cross-sectional study in the Penka-Michel Health District, West Cameroon Region

Abstract

Introduction: zoonotic diseases are a public health problem contributing to the economic burden. The objective of our study was to investigate zoonotic risk practices in rural households in the PenkaMichel Health District of Cameroon.

Methods: a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2020 to October 2021, i.e. 11 months, among 200 heads of households in PenkaMichel selected through a two-stage survey. Descriptive statistical analysis was done using SPSSversion 23.0 software.

Results: up to 74% of household heads thought that animals can transmit diseases. Many households owned poultry (98%), pig(s) (50%), dog(s) (57%) of which 48% were vaccinated against rabies, and cat(s) (52%). Urban rats, bush animals and dogs were consumed by 74%, 61% and 18% of households respectively. In addition, 25% of households slaughtered sick animals for consumption and 27% ate dead animals. The slaughter of animals was mostly carried out within the household (97%), rarely preceded by a veterinary inspection (6%). Traditional rites with animal blood were practiced in 87% of households, 65% shared the same habitat as their animals, 41% did not systematically wash their hands after handling animals.

Conclusion: many zoonotic risk practices in households have been identified. Concerted awareness-raising actions are needed among the rural population