Research Article

Tayyaba Akhtar, Maryam Wasif, Faiza Riaz, Hina Faiqa, Javeria Nousheen, Rabia Malik, Kinza Mohsin

Published on : June 2024 | Volume : 1 Issue : 1

Abstract :

Fungal infections, such as dermatophytosis and systemic mycoses, pose significant health risks to both animals and humans. Fungal infections of zoonotic origin could lead animal handlers to serious life conditions in immune compromised persons. This study determined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding fungal infections in pets and their zoonotic implications among pet owners and veterinarians. Various aspects of fungal infections such as animal handling SOPs, importance of fungal treatment completion, and transmission of fungal infections were explored in this KAP survey. Majority of the respondents had a sound knowledge of importance of hygiene and zoonotic potential of fungal infections. Overall, positive attitude was observed towards contraction of disease while respondents showed high variation of attitude in response to the importance of fungal infections. A minority of respondents were not practicing the use of hand gloves and not observing the clinical signs at all. Veterinarians obtained higher marks in both attitude and practices as compared to pet owners (p-value <0.001). On the other hand, veterinarians and pet owners showed no difference in the knowledge levels. Pearson’s residual analysis showed low level of knowledge is highly correlated with the bad practices (p-value <0.001). These findings will contribute to enhancing public health efforts, veterinary education, and communication about zoonotic fungal infections. Strengthening the veterinary health system will eventually promoting better health outcomes for pets and their human companions.