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A cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2017 to assess the knowledge, perception and practices of
brucellosis by pastoralists of Kagera ecosystem, Tanzania using qualitative methods. Five focus group
discussions of six participants were conducted with livestock farmers, administration leaders, religious
representatives and youth. In addition, discussions with three key informants were conducted, involving
officials of livestock, wildlife and public health department in each district. Data were analyzed using content
analysis with inductive and deductive methods. This study revealed low knowledge regarding brucellosis by
interviewees. Although participants recognized brucellosis as a zoonotic disease, they seemed to consider it of
less importance. In addition, participants had low knowledge on causes, symptoms and mode of transmission
of this disease. However, they perceived the interactions between humans, livestock and wildlife together with
the neighborhood with other countries to be potential risks for introduction of brucellosis in their
communities. Moreover, their habit of drinking unpasteurized milk, the lack of protective gears assisting
animals giving birth and poor vaccination program need to be improved by community health education. A
coordinated one Health approach is needed and further studies are suggested to reveal the status of brucellosis
in Kagera ecosystem to guide its control and prevention. |
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