Knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices towards zoonotic diseases among abattoir workers in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria

Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases transmitted from animals to humans. Among abattoir workers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and Nigeria, occupational exposure to animal-related hazards, combined with limited knowledge, unfavourable attitudes, and unsafe practices, contributes to the spread of these infections. This study assessed knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices on zoonotic diseases among abattoir workers in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. A analytical cross-sectional design, comprising a sample of 422, was selected via purposive sampling, using questionnaires and an observational checklist. Descriptive (frequency, percentages, measures of central tendency values) and inferential statistics (chi-square and multivariate logistic regression) were employed for the data analysis. Pre-testing of the questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha α = 0.85) ensured reliability. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured. Data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS), and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Majority of the respondents were males (302, 85.6%), between the ages of 18 and 35 years (217, 61.5%). The majority, 219 (62.0%) of respondents had good knowledge of zoonotic diseases. Over three-quarters of the respondents had a good attitude towards zoonotic diseases. About 284 (80.5%) of the workers reported wearing protective gear, as a preventive measure, during work. There was a significant association between respondents’ age, highest level of education, and marital status, and their knowledge (p < 0.05). There was an association between respondents’ religion, marital status, and their preventive practices (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed education as the strongest predictor of knowledge, with respondents holding secondary (Adjusted Odd Ratio (AOR) = 8.142; Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.598–41.477; p = 0.012) and tertiary education (AOR = 5.261; CI = 1.077–25.688; p = 0.040) significantly more likely to be knowledgeable compared to those with only primary education. Most abattoir workers had good knowledge, positive attitudes, and commendable preventive practices. The results of the study further emphasized the need for strengthened health education, awareness campaigns, and workplace safety measures to enhance knowledge and sustain preventive practices among abattoir workers.