An Exploratory One Health Assessment of the Human–Animal–Environment Interface in a Swamp Buffalo–Wetland System: A Study in Thale Noi, Thailand

Information from the abstract

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between buffalo health and the health of participating swamp buffalo keepers under the One Health framework in the Thale Noi wetland, Phatthalung Province, Thailand. An exploratory cross-sectional survey was conducted among 25 participating swamp buffalo keepers using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, buffalo production systems, and knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to zoonotic disease prevention and One Health. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that most respondents were male (68.0%), had completed primary education (68.0%), and were engaged primarily in agriculture (96.0%). The average age was 57 ± 12 years, with an average of 32 ± 14 years of buffalo-raising experience and 31 ± 41 buffaloes per household. Most buffaloes were raised in wetland grazing systems (92.0%), reflecting local livelihoods’ close dependence on the Thale Noi wetland ecosystem. Respondents demonstrated a moderate-to-high level of knowledge about zoonotic diseases and buffalo health, with an overall knowledge score of 76.4%. However, only 40.0% correctly understood the One Health concept. Attitudes toward disease prevention and integrated health management were highest (mean = 4.53 ± 0.66), while preventive practices were also high (mean = 4.07 ± 1.16). Practices such as consulting veterinarians and maintaining hygiene were widely adopted, although consistent use of personal protective equipment remained relatively low. These findings provide preliminary exploratory evidence of positive attitudes and the adoption of appropriate preventive practices but need greater awareness of the One Health concept. Strengthening integrated education, disease surveillance, and collaborative management among the livestock, public health, and environmental sectors will help sustainably improve the health of buffaloes, humans, and the wetland ecosystem.

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Related topics: Zoonotic diseases and public health · Animal Disease Management and Epidemiology · Livestock Farming and Management