Back to Search Start Over

Factors Determining the Implementation of Measures Aimed at Preventing Zoonotic Diseases in Veterinary Practices

Authors :
Véronique Renault
Sébastien Fontaine
Claude Saegerman
Source :
Pathogens, Vol 10, Iss 4, p 436 (2021)
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2021.

Abstract

Background: Zoonoses prevention relies mainly on the implementation of different biosecurity measures. This study aimed to assess the level of implementation of biosecurity measures by veterinary practitioners and students and to identify the possible behaviour change determinants. Methods: The data was collected through a cross-sectional survey (N = 382). Statistical analyses were implemented based on the Health Belief Model to identify the possible determinant of the behaviours and the explanatory variables of the perceptions. Results: The survey showed a good level of implementation of the biosecurity measures (median of 81%). The implementation was associated with a higher perception of the zoonoses’ susceptibility and the measures’ benefits, and with a lower perception of the zoonoses’ severity. The study also revealed that the decision to implement a measure was mainly taken on a case-by-case basis depending on the perceived risk of exposure related to a specific context or intervention. Conclusion: The main determining factors identified for the implementation of biosecurity measures (BSMs) were the risk susceptibility and the benefits of the biosecurity measures, which could be influenced by evidence-based communication. The methodology developed can be applied regularly and in other countries to better capture these changes in perceptions over time.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20760817
Volume :
10
Issue :
4
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Pathogens
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.09a02ce8c0dd496396608709d0878939
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040436