Critical Gaps in Zoonotic Disease Knowledge and Biosecurity Practices Among Commercial Poultry Farmers in Northern Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Document Type : Original Paper

Authors

1 Animal Health Research Division, Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka 1341, Bangladesh

2 Department of Microbiology and Public Health, Gazipur Agricultural University, Gazipur 1706, Bangladesh.

3 Department of Microbiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Khulna Agricultural University, Khulna-9202

4 Regional Laboratory for Animal Influenza & Transboundary Animal Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom 930101, Plateau State, Nigeria.

10.22069/psj.2026.24186.2435

Abstract

Zoonotic diseases can threaten public health, particularly in areas where humans and animals interact closely. This study aimed to evaluate poultry farmers' awareness of zoonotic poultry diseases, their hygiene practices, and the factors influencing their knowledge in northern Bangladesh. A total of 125 poultry farmers were interviewed to learn about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding common poultry diseases and zoonotic risks. The results revealed high awareness of diseases like Newcastle and avian influenza, but limited knowledge of zoonotic diseases such as salmonellosis. Basic hygiene practices, including avoiding eating sick birds and burying dead birds, were widely adopted, but the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was quite low. Only 26.4% of respondents used face masks, and less than 25% used gloves or waterproof boots. Multivariable analysis identified higher education, younger age (≤45 years), and farming experience (≤5 years) as significant predictors of better knowledge of zoonotic risks. The findings highlighted the importance of targeted interventions to help them learn more, promote the use of PPE, and enhance overall biosecurity. The study highlights the need for training programs that address the specific demographics of poultry farmers in Bangladesh. Targeted interventions are essential to control zoonotic disease transmission and enhance public health outcomes in intensive poultry farming regions.

Keywords

References

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Poultry Science Journal
Volume 14, Issue 2
November 2026
Pages 201-210

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