Anthrax in East-Central Bhutan: knowledge, perceptions and practices of rural communities

Abstract

The objectives of the study were to assess the communities’ knowledge, perceptions and practices on anthrax and identify preferred channel of information or communication by the communities about anthrax in east-central Bhutan. The participatory epidemiological (PE) tools were used and a total of 18 villages were selected for the study. PE techniques used with the communities included participatory mapping, simple ranking, seasonal calendars, proportional piling, matrix scoring, transect walks, and probing. At least one semi-structured interview involving 6 to 16 respondents was held in each village. In addition, the key informants were interviewed after every group session. The results showed that cattle were the most important livestock species reared. Foot and Mouth Disease and anthrax were perceived to be the most important livestock diseases in the communities. The proportional piling scores indicated that the median scores (with range) for the sick, recovered and death due to anthrax were 17 (5-22), 2 (0-5) and 14 (5-20), respectively. Communities perceived anthrax as a fatal disease but had limited knowledge on the disease epidemiology and risks to animals and humans. The most preferred channel of communication for awareness was mobile phone while social mobilization including TV and radio were the most preferred source for information. The study finding suggests the need to reinforce community knowledge about anthrax through awareness education.