Public Knowledge and Awareness of Tick-Borne Pathogens and Diseases: A
Cross-Sectional Study in Ghana
Abstract
Aims Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a significant and increasing health
threat globally. About 45 tick species have been described from Ghana,
located in Sub-Saharan Africa, but it is unknown how well-informed local
citizens are regarding the risks posed by ticks and TBDs. This research
aimed to assess the public knowledge and awareness of TBPs and TBDs in
Ghana through questionnaires. The survey underscored the potential
veterinary and public health threats of TBDs, emphasizing the importance
of awareness creation. Methods Utilizing a cross-sectional design, we
collected data from 538 respondents across all 16 regions of Ghana
through questionnaires and assessed public knowledge and awareness of
TBDs. W used both an electronic survey form and a structured interview
questionnaire to assess respondents’ knowledge of ticks and TBDs.
Descriptive table statistics were used to tabulate frequencies and
percentages of all categorical responses and more closely tested for
associations between certain variable pairs. Results Results from the
study identified limited public knowledge and awareness among animal
owners and non-animal owners in Ghana. Furthermore, the results
highlighted the association between domestic animal ownership and
increased human-tick encounters. The findings suggest a pressing need
for targeted public education on TBDs in Ghana. Conclusions As Ghana
imports livestock, the risk of TBD spread demands attention. Overall,
the survey contributes essential insights for veterinary and public
health interventions, stressing the urgency of raising awareness and
understanding among the public regarding the risks associated with ticks
and TBDs. The cohabitation of humans with a variety of domestic animals,
coupled with varying levels of veterinary service utilization, presents
opportunities for targeted public health interventions.