Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Towards Toxoplasmosis among Small Scale Farmers in Mogadishu, Somalia
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Towards Toxoplasmosis among Small Scale Farmers in Mogadishu, Somalia
Hodan Ibrahim Nageye1, Mohamed Hassan Mohamud1, Abdiaziz Idiris Mohamud2,3*, Mohamed Ahmed Jimale1, Mohamoud Abdirahman Awil1, Abdirahman Aden Hussein1 and Mohamed Isse Dhaqane1
ABSTRACT
A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2022 to January 2023, designed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices about toxoplasmosis. A total of 384 participants from various districts within the Benadir region were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The demographic profile of the participants revealed that 35.70% of respondents were from Kaxda district, and a lower portion (12.24%) from Deyniile district. The majority of respondents were females (68.8%), and individuals aged 50 years and above constituted the highest proportion (45.8%). Regarding knowledge assessment, 63.0% of participants had knowledge about toxoplasmosis, but only 11.2% were aware of its zoonotic nature, and 13.8% understood the transmission from animals to humans. Knowledge regarding the association between toxoplasmosis and abortion in humans and animals was low (24.3%). Furthermore, awareness about the treatment of toxoplasmosis in animals was limited (34.4%). In terms of attitudes, 31.25% of participants were knowledgeable about the dangers of toxoplasmosis, while the majority either lacked knowledge or showed limited concern about these matters.In terms of practices, a significant percentage of participants had direct contact with livestock without using gloves (71.9%) and consumed unwashed vegetables (30.2%). Additionally, a high percentage of participants drank untreated water or tap water (95%). These findings highlight the concerning lack of knowledge, varied attitudes, and risky practices regarding toxoplasmosis among small-scale farmers in Mogadishu, Somalia. Public education campaigns should be implemented to enhance awareness, promote positive attitudes, and encourage safe practices to prevent toxoplasmosis in this population.
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