Knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices towards zoonotic diseases among abattoir workers in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria

Background Zoonotic diseases are a major public health concern, particularly among occupationally exposed groups such as abattoir workers. Objectives This study assessed knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices on zoonotic diseases among abattoir workers in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional design, comprising a sample of 422, was selected via purposive sampling, using questionnaires and an observational checklist. Pre-testing of the questionnaire (α = 0.85) ensured reliability. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured. Data were analyzed in SPSS (p < 0.05). Results Majority of the respondents were males (85.6%), between the ages of 18 and 35 (61.5%). The majority, 219 (62.0%) of respondents had good knowledge of zoonotic diseases. Over three-quarters of the respondents had a good attitude towards zoonotic diseases. There was an association between respondents' age, highest level of education, and marital status with knowledge (p < 0.05). There was an association between respondents' marital status and their preventive practices (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed education as the strongest predictor of knowledge, with respondents holding secondary (AOR = 8.142; p = 0.012) and tertiary education (AOR = 5.261; p = 0.040) significantly more likely to be knowledgeable compared to those with only primary education. Conclusions Most abattoir workers had good knowledge, positive attitudes, and commendable preventive practices. The results of the study further emphasized the need for strengthened health education, awareness campaigns, and workplace safety measures to enhance knowledge and sustain preventive practices among abattoir workers.