Creation of public awareness on haemorrhagic septicaemia in bovine, in and around jimma areas, south western part of Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross sectional study was conducted from September 21, 2014 to August 6, 2015 in Oromia region of Jimma Zone to asssess the knowledge gap and Community sensitization on Bovine Haemorrhagic Septicemia with the aim to create public awareness. This disease is a common cause for death of livestock, and loss of livestock a product throughout the world and it is an endemic disease in countries like Ethiopia,in and around Jima areas in particular. Early treatment improves outcome; however, treatment may be delayed if the owner of the patient animal does not present his animal for medical care until late in the disease process. Lack of knowledge about the syndrome may contribute to delay in presenting for medical care. About 72% of interviewees had never heard of the term "gororsaa loonii (local name of Haemorrhagic Septicemia)". However, we need to minimize the risk and complexity of the disease. General awareness of the disease by the public may increase the perception and attitudes of the community to act against the disease. Increased public awareness of acute Haemorrhagic septicaemia can contributed to reduced mortality rate of the livestock. This example provides a rationale for future efforts to increase the public awareness of Haemorrhagic septicaemia. As there is no previous Extension efforts have focused on imparting knowledge to change environmental behaviors practiced, awareness and intrinsic motivation to protect the environment and keep animals in good hygienic conditions play a stronger role in adopting behaviors to prevent the spread of the disease.