Lead Researcher:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Syafinaz Amin Nordin, UPM
Co-researchers:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Razitasham Safii, UNIMAS
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siti Khairani Bejo, UPM
Dr. Gayathri Thevi Selvarajah, UPM
Abdul Rahman bin Mohamad Gobil, UiTM
Project Summary
Leptospirosis is a significant zoonotic disease with the worldwide occurrence. It has become public health importance and is considered as a re-emerging disease especially so with the environment where leptospira are abundant. Leptospirosis is acquired by contact with infected animals or urine-contaminated environments such as soil or water. Given its significant morbidity, leptospirosis has become a notifiable disease in Malaysia. In Negeri Sembilan, there is a steady increase in the number of cases of Leptospirosis since 2006 to 2009. The purpose of this study is to disseminate knowledge about leptospirosis and its preventive measures among the university students in Seremban and the local community in Jempol, Negeri Sembilan. This study had assessed knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards leptospirosis among 264 community members in Jempol, which was followed by a health promotion program focusing on the disease. In addition, 183 university students went through a leptospirosis awareness program in the form of a treasure hunt where they performed tasks and activities with their group members. Their knowledge towards leptospirosis was assessed before and after this activity.