EVALUATION OF THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES ON ANTHRAX OF LIVESTOCK FARMERS IN TINKABERRI COMMUNITY, PORT LOKO DISTRICT, SIERRA LEONE

Abstract

Background: Anthrax, an infectious zoonosis caused by the spore-forming Bacillus anthracis, remains endemic in Sierra Leone. Recurrent outbreaks, including those in 1994 and 2022, threaten the livelihoods of rural livestock farmers and pose significant public health risks. Persistent transmission cycles are often fueled by inadequate carcass disposal, low vaccination coverage, and significant knowledge gaps. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of livestock farmers in Tinkaberri, Port Loko District, to inform targeted One Health interventions.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 50 livestock farmers in the Tinkaberri community. Participants were selected via convenience sampling based on specific inclusion criteria: age ≥18 years, livestock ownership, and residency ≥6 months. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic, anthrax recognition (symptoms and transmission), attitudes toward outbreak response, and behavioral practices. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, with results expressed as frequencies and percentages.

Results: The cohort was predominantly male (72%) and aged 18–50 years; 52% had no formal education. While 94% of respondents recalled the 2022 outbreak due to radio sensitization, deep technical knowledge was lacking: only 15% possessed comprehensive awareness of the disease. Regarding symptoms, 67% recognized human skin lesions and 50% identified sudden animal death, yet 60% remained unaware of broader animal symptoms. Knowledge of transmission was inconsistent; 78% identified contact with infected tissues, but only 7% and 4% identified inhalation and consumption, respectively. Crucially, 78% lacked knowledge of prevention methods. Despite these gaps, attitudes were positive, with high willingness to vaccinate. Reported practices showed improvement, with 74% avoiding the slaughter of suspect animals and a majority shifting toward carcass burial over inaction.

Conclusions: The 2022 outbreak served as a powerful catalyst for basic awareness and improved carcass management in Tinkaberri. However, profound deficits in knowledge regarding transmission routes and preventative measures maintain a high zoonotic risk profile. Sustained, multi-sectoral One Health strategies are essential. Future efforts should prioritize intensified community sensitization via radio and door-to-door campaigns, subsidized vaccination programs, and the formalization of outbreak reporting protocols to safeguard both animal and human health in endemic regions.

Keywords: Anthrax, One Health, Zoonosis, Livestock Farmers, Sierra Leone, KAP Study.