Knowledge Sharing Among Public Health Professionals on Management of Zoonoses in Nigeria

Abstract

Zoonotic diseases are characterized by significant morbidity and mortality in humans. In Nigeria, tragic effects of zoonotic diseases have been reported. This calls for a sustained collaboration among public health professionals to confront the ever-increasing challenges of managing zoonotic diseases. This study explores the perception of public health professionals about knowledge sharing and the absorptive capacity of health professionals in managing zoonotic diseases. Data were collected through a semi- structured interview. The analysis was done using qualitative content analysis. Findings revealed positive perception of public health professionals about knowledge sharing in managing zoonotic. Also, the study found that Public Health professionals acquire external knowledge for managing zoonotic disease through multidisciplinary networks and professional associations. The One Health initiative is one avenue where public health professionals can leverage on the strength and capacities of each other to respond competently to emerging health threats of zoonotic diseases.