Community knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward Tox-oplasmosis and the epidemiological role of birds in its trans-mission in the district of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19955323Keywords:
Toxoplasma, Zoonosis, One Health, Public health, Parasitic diseasesAbstract
Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic disease caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, poses significant public health and economic challenges by infecting humans, animals, and birds globally. Birds, as intermediate hosts, play a critical role in the transmission cycle of this parasite, highlighting the importance of community awareness regarding its epidemiological impacts. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) related to toxoplasmosis among residents in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Using close-ended questionnaires with 59 structured questions, responses from 200 randomly selected participants across five tehsils were analyzed. Findings revealed that although 45.5% of the respondents were aware of the existence of toxoplasmosis but 64% lacked knowledge about its transmission. Commonly identified transmission routes included consumption of raw or undercooked meat, contact with contaminated soil, untreated water, and raw vegetables. Additionally, 58% of participants supported disease control measures, though 59% were unaware of available treatments. These results underscore a moderate level of community awareness among the residents of Lahore and emphasize the need for targeted educational campaigns utilizing the One Health Approach to mitigate the risks associated with this parasitic disease. Community engagement and intersectoral collaboration are imperative to enhance public health outcomes and prevent the spread of toxoplasmosis.
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