Situational profile of equidae breeders in the municipality of Soure, Pará: an approach to glanders and adoption of relevant sanitary measures

Abstract

A survey was conducted on the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of Equidae breeders in the municipality of Soure, Marajó Island, Pará, regarding animal health problems in the properties, especially glanders and adoption of sanitary measures that are pertinent to their combat, to elaborate on educational technical material with the appropriate methodology. The study included 50 interviewees from urban and rural areas of this municipality. Regarding data collection, structured interviews containing 22 multiple choice questions on the socioeconomic characteristics of breeders and/or owners of Equidae, breeding habits and models, and conceptions about sanitary control and their relationship with the animal health defense agency were conducted. From the qualitative analysis of data, 66% (33/50) interviewees were identified as literate, which facilitates the choice of the best language to use for communication. Regarding the choice of the best language for the transfer of information, 62% (31/50) interviewees said that a mobile phone is currently the best tool for transmitting information. Further, 40% (20/50) interviewees breed their Equidae extensively, raising an alert for epidemiological surveillance, and only 10% (5/50) interviewees turned to ADEPARÁ when the animals were sick. Based on the study results, Equidae breeders need guidance regarding the actions of the animal health defense services, and sanitary education is a fundamental measure for raising awareness and clarification of glanders to mitigate damage to public health and animal welfare, avoiding its spread in the State.