DISEASE RECOGNITION AND EARLY REPORTING OF SUSPECTED AFRICAN SWINE FEVER IN BAYBAY CITY, LEYTE, PHILIPPINES: A KAP STUDY

Sheena Mae  S. Wheless,; Harvie  P. Portugaliza,

DISEASE RECOGNITION AND EARLY REPORTING OF SUSPECTED AFRICAN SWINE FEVER IN BAYBAY CITY, LEYTE, PHILIPPINES: A KAP STUDY

Sheena Mae S Wheless | Harvie P Portugaliza

Abstract:

Disease recognition and case reporting are key aspects of the prevention and control of African Swine Fever (ASF). This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward ASF recognition and early reporting of selected stakeholders in Baybay City, Leyte. A KAP survey was conducted among farmers, meat sellers, butchers, and LGU personnel (N= 270). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with each KAP score. Most stakeholders demonstrated poor knowledge of ASF recognition, re?lecting a poor understanding of ASF concepts. Good knowledge of ASF, college education, and young age were associated with good knowledge of case reporting. Most stakeholders demonstrated good attitudes toward early reporting, correlating to a high education level. Most stakeholders are unlikely to consume or sell potentially infected pigs; however, stakeholders’ type and sex in?luenced these attitudes. Good knowledge and not good attitudes translate into good practices of ASF reporting. This KAP study reveals the need to improve knowledge and practices in ASF disease recognition and early case reporting, especially among farmers.