Epidemiological Studies on Physical, Chemical, Zoonotic and Psychological Hazards among Veterinarians

The veterinary profession is complex and the demand of this profession expose veterinarians to various risks like traumatic injuries, zoonotic diseases and mental health hazards. This study reports physical, chemical, biological, psychological health hazards and awareness relevant to Indian veterinarians as obtained by self administered questionnaire. As many as 392 veterinarians were surveyed. Physical injuries reported were Bite (31.8%), scratch (65.1%), kick (62.8%), horn wound (14%), needle prick (89.2%), fracture (3.8%) and injuries due to falling/ lifting animals/ moving heavy equipments (61.3%). Majority of veterinarians experienced some form of allergy. Incidence of skin irritation was highest among (50.2%) veterinarians. Ringworm (13.5%) and fungal infection (26.5%) were most common zoonotic infection. Low level stress was reported in 45% of participants, 34% had moderate and 21% felt high level of psychological stress. The proportion of participants using protective equipments include 60% gloves, 1.1% goggles, and 39.8% apron The study showed that 171(43.6%), 122 (31.1%), 67 (17.1%), 32 (8.2%) veterinarians followed deworming at 6 month, 1 year, 2 year and more than 2 year intervals respectively. The awareness levels concerning occupational hazards among the veterinary health professionals was near optimal but the need was felt to implement efforts aimed at addressing deterrence of occupational hazards.

• Veterinarians are on risk for various health hazards during clinical practice.

• Majority of veterinarians experienced some form of allergy.