Personal biosecurity among livestock producers and veterinarians in Armenia and the Republic of Moldova

Livestock producers and veterinarians are at high risk of zoonotic disease exposure, yet protective practices are often inconsistent. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in Armenia (387 livestock producers and 113 veterinarians) and the Republic of Moldova (373 livestock producers and 100 veterinarians). To analyze how education, knowledge, and risk perceptions influence personal biosecurity practices, specifically the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), descriptive statistics and multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) were employed. The findings revealed gaps in awareness and the implementation of preventive measures, including not using PPE to handle abortion materials or carcass disposal. In addition, risky behaviors such as feeding viscera to pets and selling unpasteurized milk were common. Although 40% of livestock producers reported having no formal training on zoonotic diseases, more than 80% indicated that they would like to learn more about the subject. Veterinarians' results reflected compliance with hygiene standards and a commitment to using PPE and implementing biosecurity measures. Additionally, greater self-reported knowledge on zoonotic diseases was associated with improved hygiene and more appropriate use of PPE in specific situations. The study underscores the critical role of education and effective communication between livestock producers and veterinarians in promoting safe practices. Addressing these gaps requires context-specific training and awareness, provision of affordable PPE, and institutional strengthening of veterinary services, framed within a One Health approach.