Knowledge and Practices Regarding Zoonotic Bovine Tuberculosis among Meat Processors at Slaughter Slabs in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Zoonotic tuberculosis remains a major public health issue in many parts of the world. A study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge and practices of slaughter slab meat processors in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria, using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. A total of 100 questionnaires were randomly administered to butchers and meat sellers with their informed consent. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and chi-square tests were used to assess associations, with a p value of p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Demographic data showed that all respondents were male; half were butchers, and half were meat sellers. Most respondents were between 26 and 45 years, with 40% between 26 and 35 and 42% between 36 and 45 years old. Regarding education, 40% had primary education, while 42% had secondary education. The study revealed that butchers were more aware of TB than meat sellers (p < 0.000). However, most respondents lacked awareness that TB is a zoonotic disease (p = 0.01, Table 2). Concerning vaccination, 44% of butchers and 48% of meat sellers had never received the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine (p = 0.14). Most butchers (45%) and meat sellers (35%) associated tuberculosis only with animal diseases (p = 0.01). There was a moderate level of understanding about tuberculosis among 45% of butchers and 25% of meat sellers. Still, more targeted policies are needed to enhance awareness of zoonotic diseases among meat processors in abattoirs and slaughter slab operations.