An assessment of the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Kabul University students regarding zoonotic diseases

Abstract

Abstract Background: Zoonoses are diseases that are naturally transmitted between animals and humans, and are caused by a wide range of microbial agents. More than 200 zoonotic diseases with varying prevalence and incidence levels have been identified worldwide, and a significant number of these diseases have been reported in Afghanistan. Methods: This study aimed to assess the KAP of male students at Kabul University regarding zoonoses. Therefore, a cross-sectional survey was conducted from April 5 to June 28, 2023. Data were collected from 600 students using a consecutive convenience sampling approach through structured face-to-face interviews. Results: Approximately half of the participants (42.7%) reported that they or their family members had been infected with at least one zoonotic disease, most commonly tuberculosis (16.33%), rabies (7.17%), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever “CCHF” (4.83%), brucellosis (3.17%), and leishmaniasis (3.17%). Although only 38.2% of the students had previously heard the term “zoonoses”, 66.0, 52.0, and 70.5% demonstrated good knowledge, positive attitudes, and good practices regarding zoonotic diseases, respectively. The main gaps identified were the consumption of raw animal products and the unhygienic slaughter of animals. Students from medical sciences faculties were significantly more likely to have good knowledge of zoonoses (OR = 3.42, 95% CI: 1.51–7.77, p < 0.05), while students from rural areas had lower knowledge compared to urban residents (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39–0.96, p < 0.035). Furthermore, students with positive attitudes were more likely to have good knowledge (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.42–3.76, p < 0.001) and good practices (OR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.45–3.97, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Considering the observed knowledge gaps and risky behaviors, implementing campus-wide One Health awareness programs, integrating zoonotic disease education into high school and university curricula, and promoting multidisciplinary collaboration among public health, veterinary, and educational sectors are crucial to reduce the risk of zoonotic infections among students, their families, and the broader community. One Health impact statement Zoonoses represent a major public health concern and challenge worldwide, particularly in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Afghanistan. In these settings, many communities rely heavily on livestock, resulting in close contact between humans and animals. Animals are the primary sources of zoonotic diseases, and the occurrence of certain zoonoses is influenced by climate change and other environmental factors. Contact with infected animals and consumption of contaminated animal products are the main routes of zoonotic disease transmission to humans. Various zoonoses – including brucellosis, toxoplasmosis, anthrax, rabies and Crimean – Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) – are endemic in Afghanistan. Therefore, an integrated, multidisciplinary One Health approach, led by public health, veterinary and environmental health professionals, represents the most practical and cost-effective strategy to prevent, control and potentially eradicate these diseases. This approach also enhances public awareness regarding zoonoses, particularly among high-risk groups such as farmers, butchers, animal product processors, and veterinarians.