Work

Zoonoses Under the Radar: What Do High School Students Really Know?

Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Zoonoses are diseases that are transmissible between animals and humans. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of high school students from private (n=62) and public (n=70) schools about the prevention and control of zoonoses through a questionnaire with socioeconomic questions and knowledge about zoonoses. It was found that 98% of the students were between 15 and 18 years old, and that they lived with their families, which were mostly made up of four to seven people. The main activity of the families of students from private schools was commerce, while that of public schools varied. Dogs were the animal most mentioned as domestic animals in the residence by students (71%) and they lived inside the houses. Most of the animals did not receive frequent veterinary care. Lack of knowledge of the concept of zoonoses was found in 66% of students from public schools and 48% of students from private schools. Education of the population and improved sanitation were the alternatives most chosen by interviewees as measures that would help prevent zoonoses. The results obtained emphasize the importance of university outreach programs involving professionals, faculty, and students committed to sharing quality information with the community, particularly those lacking access to such knowledge. In conclusion, it is essential to focus on increasing the flow of information and implementing actions in schools to provide students with concise knowledge about One Health and zoonotic diseases prevention.
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W4411901767
FWCI:
Cites: 51
Cited by: 1
Related to: 10