Workshop educates workers on zoonotic infections, safety measures
Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMC&H), in collaboration with Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), conducted a sensitization workshop under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) project titled ‘Building a Surveillance Model for Detecting Zoonotic Spill Over in Increased Animal-Human Interaction Settings Using a One Health Approach.’
The workshop aimed to educate local slaughterhouse workers about the risks of zoonotic infections, diseases transmitted from animals to humans and equip them with essential knowledge on preventive measures.
Zoonotic infections pose a significant risk to slaughterhouse workers due to their direct and continuous exposure to animals and animal products. Recognising this, DMC&H and GADVASU joined forces to raise awareness and promote best hygiene practices in the workplace.
Dr GS Wander, Principal of DMC&H, commended the efforts of both institutes and underscored the need for regular training sessions to safeguard the health of slaughterhouse workers. He emphasised the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to minimise occupational hazards associated with these infections.
Dr Veenu Gupta, Professor & Head of the Department of Microbiology at DMC&H, stressed the significance of hygiene and preventive measures such as frequent hand washing, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper waste disposal and routine health check-ups. She highlighted how these simple yet crucial steps can substantially reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission.
Dr JS Bedi, Director of the Centre for One Health at GADVASU, provided insights into common zoonotic diseases prevalent in slaughterhouse settings, including brucellosis and salmonellosis.
Dr Rajesh Mahajan, Professor & Head of the Department of Medicine at DMC&H, discussed the symptoms of zoonotic infections and urged workers to seek medical assistance at the earliest signs of illness. He stressed that early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure better health outcomes.
The interactive session concluded with a Q&A segment, where slaughterhouse workers expressed their concerns and sought expert guidance. As a step towards enhancing workplace safety, workers were provided with safety kits containing essential protective gear.
This initiative reinforces the commitment of DMC&H and GADVASU to public health and workplace safety by fostering awareness and adopting the one health approach.
