Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices (KAP) of Brucellosis in Occupationally Exposed Groups in Armenia

Abstract

Brucellosis, a bacterial disease caused by the genus Brucella, is a zoonotic and occupational disease. A high risk of infection with Brucella is associated with the workplace. Infection may occur by inhalation, conjunctival or skin contamination, accidental injury with a syringe, or exposure in a slaughterhouse or food processing facility. This study delves into Brucellosis, a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Brucella, focusing on occupational exposure among slaughterhouse workers and food processors in Armenia. The research assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of 306 participants, including 18 slaughterhouse workers and 288 food processors (76 meat and 212 milk employees). Despite universal awareness (100 %) of Brucellosis risk, the study uncovers potential shortcomings in workplace practices, notably in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), as 43.9 % of respondents wash their working clothes at home. The findings underscore the need for ongoing education and remediation efforts to enhance safety measures and also emphasize the imperative of addressing these issues within at-risk groups in Armenia.