Knowledge About Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis in the Municipality of Girón, Santander, Colombia
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study evaluated the perception of the population in the municipality of Girón, Santander, Colombia, regarding knowledge of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL). A semi-structured survey was conducted with 387 individuals in 2023, to assess their understanding of CVL in Girón, a municipality within the metropolitan area of Bucaramanga, Santander. A descriptive analysis was carried out using JASP software, and associations were tested using the Chi-square and Cramer’s V tests, with a significant level of p < 0.05. Only 9.3% of participants had heard of the disease and identified it as zoonotic, while 7.8% reported knowing its mode of transmission. Regarding the vector, 51.2% correctly identified phlebotomine sandflies, although misconceptions persisted—32.6% attributed transmission to Aedes aegypti and 9.3% to dogs. In terms of risk perception, 41.9% believed anyone could suffer from the disease, and 60.5% considered that certain groups were at greater risk. However, only 12.4% recognized CVL as a serious illness, and 8.5% believed it could be fatal. Concerning prevention, 45.0% thought that hygiene could help control the disease, but most did not associate this with veterinary health monitoring. Among respondents with dogs, only 5.6% had ever conducted diagnostic tests, all of which were positive. Considering the significance of CVL as a neglected zoonotic disease and public health problem, this study highlights the limited and inconsistent knowledge of the community. The findings emphasize the need for eco-epidemiological surveillance and educational programs targeting dog owners and veterinarians to strengthen control and prevention strategies for leishmaniasis.
Source: EcoHealth
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,790
OpenAlex ID: W7225647127