Socialisation on the Prevention of Zoonotic Parasitic Diseases in Livestock to the Community in Medowo Village, Kediri Regency

Kediri, 26 July 2024 – Students from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya (FKH UB), conducted the Integrated Community Service and Field Work Programme (KKN PENGMASDU) in Medowo Village, Kediri Regency. The aim of this activity was to educate the community about the prevention of zoonotic parasitic diseases in livestock, which pose a risk of transmission between animals and humans.

The KKN programme, which took place from 19 to 31 July 2024, was participated in by students Gicka Maulida Laily Nurrahmah, Fasya Ega Nabilla, Kholilatul Latifah, Lintang Pramata Cahyarani, and Qurratun Naura, under the guidance of Drh. Reza Yesica, M.Sc., and supported by Mr. Sugianto, Head of the KUD Kertajaya Dairy Cattle Unit, Medowo Village.

Documentation with Mr. Sugianto (Head of the KUD Kertajaya Dairy Cattle Unit, Medowo Village)

Parasites are organisms that live inside or on the body of a host, causing harm by consuming nutrients and damaging tissues. Some parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted between animals and humans. Common zoonotic parasites include worms, protozoa, fleas, and bacteria, which can lead to diseases such as Taeniasis, Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Toxoplasmosis.

Given the limited knowledge among the community about the risks of zoonotic parasites, the students from FKH UB conducted a socialisation programme on the importance of preventing these diseases through proper barn cleanliness, good sanitation, and the implementation of appropriate biosecurity and biosafety measures.

The socialisation took place on 26 July 2024 at a local resident’s home and was attended by community members, including the wives of farmers who are active in study groups. The programme involved the students presenting materials in turn, supported by modules, posters, and quizzes consisting of pretests and posttests to gauge the community’s understanding.

Photo with the study group members (wives of farmers)

In addition to the socialisation activities, the KKN students also took part in fieldwork, observing and assisting at the cattle pens, milk collection points, and animal health laboratories. They worked alongside Drh. Eko and Drh. Pras in providing animal health services and conducting livestock examinations.

Documentation with drh. Eko and drh. Pras

On 31 July 2024, the KKN programme was officially closed with a farewell event attended by the community of Medowo Village. It is hoped that this socialisation will raise awareness about the dangers of zoonotic parasitic diseases and their prevention, helping to protect both the community and their livestock.This activity is expected to have a positive impact on the health of both animals and humans in Medowo Village and to benefit the wider community.