Perceptions of veterinarians and farmers on paratuberculosis and biosecurity practices in Northeastern Brazil: a case study in Pernambuco

• Published in: Ciência Rural
• Main Authors: Amanda de Noronha Xavier, Rodolfo de Moraes Peixoto, José Wilton Pinheiro Junior
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade Federal de Santa Maria 2025-10-01
• Subjects: biosecurity; questionnaire; veterinarians; farmers; Johne disease
• Online Access: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0103-84782025001100452&tlng=en

ABSTRACT: This research analyzed the perceptions of veterinarians and farmers about paratuberculosis (PTB) and biosecurity practices in Pernambuco, a state region of Northeast Brazil. A questionnaire was administered to 84 veterinarians and 54 farmers with objective questions about the disease and control and prevention practices. Regarding knowledge about PTB, it was observed that 97.62% (n = 82/84) of veterinarians and 55.56% (n = 30/54) of farmers were aware of the disease (P < 0.0001). In connection with general biosecurity practices, it was found that 98.81% of veterinarians (n = 83/84) and 55.56% of farmers (n = 30/54) knew the term biosecurity and associated it with associated with measures to prevent the occurrence of occupational accidents (P < 0.05). The research data showed that the promotion of health education for these professionals about the PTB and biosecurity practices is an appropriate instrument to reduce direct and indirect costs caused by the disease and to promote the good health of herds in the state of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil.