A study of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward avian influenza among university students in Surabaya, Indonesia
In the bustling markets of East Java, where the chatter of buyers blends with the clucking of chickens, a silent threat has lurked for decades—the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus. Since its emergence in Indonesia in 2003, this deadly pathogen has not only devastated poultry populations but has also claimed human lives, with Indonesia reporting the highest human mortality rate from H5N1 infections worldwide 7 .
Amidst this ongoing battle, a crucial question emerges: How prepared are the next generation of scientists and professionals to confront this feathered threat? A fascinating study conducted among students of two public universities in Surabaya, East Java, provides compelling answers that might shape the future of pandemic preparedness in Indonesia.
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that belongs to the Orthomyxoviridae family. The H5N1 subtype represents one of the most concerning strains due to its high pathogenicity and mortality rate in both birds and humans 7 .
In Indonesia, the impact of H5N1 extends far beyond health concerns. The virus has inflicted severe economic losses on both commercial poultry operations and backyard farms, which represent a crucial source of protein and income for many rural families 6 .
To assess the understanding of avian influenza among future professionals, researchers conducted a comprehensive cross-sectional survey among students at two public universities in Surabaya, East Java. The study focused on students from three critical faculties: Veterinary Medicine, Fisheries and Marine Sciences, and Science and Technology 3 .
| Characteristic | Category | Number of Students | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gender | Female | 222 | 52.2% |
| Male | 203 | 47.8% | |
| Age Group | 18 years | 240 | 56.5% |
| 20-30 years | 185 | 43.5% | |
| Faculty | Veterinary Medicine | 149 | 35.1% |
| Fisheries and Marine | 157 | 36.9% | |
| Science and Technology | 119 | 28.0% |
The study revealed encouraging findings regarding students' knowledge of avian influenza. Approximately 76.94% of students demonstrated appropriate knowledge about the disease, with significant variations observed across different faculties 3 .
Students from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine showed significantly higher knowledge levels compared to their peers in other faculties. This finding aligns with expectations, given that veterinary students receive specialized education in animal diseases and zoonotic transmissions 3 .
| Knowledge Aspect | Overall Accuracy | Veterinary Medicine | Fisheries & Marine | Science & Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission routes | 91.3% | 96.5% | 87.2% | 85.7% |
| Species affected | 85.2% | 92.1% | 82.5% | 79.3% |
| Prevention measures | 76.8% | 88.3% | 72.6% | 70.1% |
| Symptoms recognition | 72.5% | 85.7% | 68.9% | 65.2% |
When it came to attitudes toward avian influenza, the survey found that 72.89% of students demonstrated positive attitudes regarding the seriousness of the threat and the importance of preventive measures 3 . Again, veterinary students showed significantly more positive attitudes compared to their counterparts in other faculties.
A substantial majority of respondents (76.8%) recognized that poultry workers and veterinarians face elevated risks of contracting avian influenza infection 7 . This awareness is particularly important given that individuals with direct poultry exposure may serve as potential transmission routes for the virus to the broader population.
In terms of practical behaviors, the results were somewhat less encouraging. Only 56.90% of students reported adopting proactive behaviors to prevent avian influenza transmission 3 . This significant gap between knowledge and practice represents a crucial challenge for public health education initiatives.
| Behavioral Aspect | Percentage Adhering | Main Barriers |
|---|---|---|
| Regular handwashing after poultry contact | 62.3% | Forgetfulness, lack of facilities |
| Avoiding sick/dead poultry | 58.7% | Cultural practices, economic factors |
| Reporting sick birds to authorities | 51.2% | Lack of knowledge about reporting channels |
| Proper poultry cooking practices | 68.9% | Already widely practiced |
| Use of protective equipment | 45.6% | Limited availability, cost concerns |
Understanding avian influenza requires sophisticated laboratory tools and reagents. The following table outlines essential research materials used in studies like the one conducted in Surabaya, along with their primary functions:
| Research Reagent | Primary Function | Application in KAP Studies |
|---|---|---|
| ELISA Kits | Detect antibodies against influenza viruses | Serological surveys to determine exposure prevalence |
| PCR Primers and Probes | Amplify and detect viral genetic material | Confirm active infections and identify virus subtypes |
| Virus Transport Media | Preserve viral samples during transportation | Maintain sample integrity from field to laboratory |
| Cell Culture Systems | Grow and isolate influenza viruses | Virus propagation for further characterization |
| Hemagglutination Inhibition Assays | Measure specific antibody response | Assess immune protection levels in populations |
| Standardized Questionnaires | Collect knowledge, attitude, and practice data | Conduct cross-sectional surveys in target populations |
| Statistical Analysis Software | Analyze complex dataset relationships | Identify correlations and risk factors in KAP studies |
The battle against avian influenza in Indonesia is far from over. The virus continues to evolve, posing ongoing threats to animal and human health. In this protracted struggle, education remains our most powerful weapon—as demonstrated by the knowledgeable students of Surabaya's universities.
By equipping the next generation of scientists, veterinarians, and professionals with not only factual knowledge but also the practical tools and economic alternatives needed to implement protective behaviors, Indonesia can build a more resilient defense against avian influenza and other zoonotic threats.
The Surabaya study ultimately reminds us that in our interconnected world, where viruses leap from birds to humans and from farms to cities, our first and best defense is an informed, empowered, and proactive citizenry—beginning with our students.
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