ZOONOSES AQUI NÃO! RELATO DE EXPERIÊNCIA DE UMA ATIVIDADE DE EXTENSÃO NA CAPITAL PIAUIENSE

ABSTRACT Introduction: Zoonoses are infectious diseases transmitted between animals and humans, and their occurrence is strongly associated with poor environmental conditions and social vulnerability. In rural communities, the lack of basic sanitation, close contact with animals, and insufficient health education contribute to the persistence of these diseases. Objective: To develop a university extension activity focused on zoonosis prevention through practical and interactive educational actions with residents of a rural area in Teresina, Brazil. Methods: The activity was carried out at Baixão do Carlos Municipal School on October 12, 2024, involving children, adolescents, and adults. Educational strategies included lectures, practical demonstrations of proper handwashing, homemade water treatment, and the production of natural repellents. All actions were based on scientific literature selected using the MeSH terms “zoonoses,” “poverty,” and “basic sanitation.” Results and Discussion: The action reached 138 participants and demonstrated strong community engagement. The applied methods facilitated content assimilation and encouraged active participation in disease prevention. The experience also highlighted the role of extension activities in the training of medical students. Conclusion: The intervention contributed to public health awareness and reinforced the role of the university in promoting citizenship and collective care in socially vulnerable contexts. Keywords: Health Promotion; Rural Community; Hand Hygiene; Parasitic Infections.