Brucellosis knowledge and preventive practices among herders in Western Mongolia.

Abstract

Lack of knowledge regarding brucellosis may lead to highly risky practices. Among herders in Mongolia, little research was conducted assessing the extent of knowledge related to brucellosis, the type of preventive behaviours that were practiced, and the relationship between knowledge and behaviour regarding brucellosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted in two provinces of Mongolia where herders were randomly selected to participate in the study. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire. In total, 485 herders participated in the study. The results indicated that brucellosis preventive practices were significantly associated with sex, location, use of veterinary services, exposure to TV programs and knowledge of brucellosis. Regional disparities in knowledge and behaviour were observed in this research. Herders were more likely to engage in preventive practices if they had a higher level of knowledge of brucellosis. Findings from this research indicated that the effectiveness of incorporating health education through TV programs, as well as the importance of ensuring access to veterinary services in brucellosis prevention.