Awareness of zoonoses in Lao PDR: A call for targeted health education

Abstract

Zoonoses pose serious public health challenges. In Lao People's Democratic Republic, where > 70% of population engages in agriculture and livestock farming, public awareness of zoonoses remains unclear. We conducted a nationwide population-based survey with 347 individuals aged 12–40 years across 40 villages in 20 districts. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with zoonoses awareness. Awareness was approximately 42.9% and was significantly higher among females and livestock owners. Lower awareness was observed among individuals with primary or secondary education compared with those with higher education, whereas no significant difference was found for those with no formal education. These findings highlight the need for targeted health education programs for populations with limited access to formal education and health information. A One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health sectors, should be prioritized to improve zoonoses awareness and reduce transmission risks, especially in rural and marginalized communities.