Preventive Measures against Avian Influenza in Lagelu Local Government Area, South Western Nigeria: A model to vaccination in Nigeria
Over 1.5 million birds were culled as a result of Avian Influenza Infection (AII) outbreak among poultries in Nigeria, and one human fatal case reported. Poultry workers’ knowledge of AII and factors influencing its spread in Nigeria are not adequately documented. Hence, this study assessed knowledge and compliance regarding preventive measures against AII among poultry workers in Lagelu Local Government Area.
METHODS:
A cross sectional survey of 254 poultry workers selected by cluster sampling was conducted in 2007. A pre-tested, validated semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on poultry workers’ knowledge of AII and preventive measures. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess predictors of preventive practice.
RESULTS: Mean age was 31.5+9.9 years and 55.9% male. Median duration of engagement in poultry work was 2 years (range 1 – 25years); 94.1% heard about AII. Mass media (74.8%) was the main source of information. Only 72% correctly defined AII; 24.8% had a good knowledge of AII and 82.3% agreed that AII is a serious but preventable disease. However, 28.7% had changed their behavior regarding the handling of poultry birds/products in the last 6 months. No vaccination of poultry was reported by 94.9% and wearing of Personal Protective Equipment was not a routine practice. The predictors of preventive practice include poultry work experience of >2 years (OR= 3.86, 95%CI= 1.39-10.67, p=0.01); mass media (OR= 4.99, 95%CI= 1.76-14.15, p<0.01); veterinary/medical doctors (OR= 4.71, 95%CI= 1.18-18.82, p<0.03) and poultry workers association (OR= 3.84, 95%CI= 1.32-11.19, p=0.01).
CONCLUSIONS:
There is a need to provide effective and coordinated information to poultry workers about AII and the precautions necessary to avoid spreading the virus among poultry birds and especially to humans.