Anthrax remains a significant zoonotic public health concern in endemic regions such as Odisha, India, particularly among tribal populations due to close contact with livestock and limited health awareness. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a structured health education programme in improving knowledge and attitudes toward anthrax prevention.
A quantitative pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was conducted with 100 participants selected through convenience sampling from rural villages in Koraput district, Odisha. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule covering socio-demographic variables, a knowledge questionnaire, and a Likert scale on attitudes. The intervention consisted of a two-day structured health education programme, with post-test assessment conducted one week later. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, paired t-test, and chi-square test.
Baseline findings revealed that 79% of participants had poor knowledge and 61% exhibited negative attitudes toward anthrax prevention. Following the intervention, 60% demonstrated good knowledge and 62% showed highly positive attitudes. The improvement in mean knowledge and attitude scores was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Significant associations were also found between baseline knowledge and selected socio-demographic factors, including occupation and prior exposure to health information.
![Rounded Rectangle: Received: January 05, 2026; Revised: February 14, 2026; March: 20, 2025 2025]()
The study concludes that structured health education programmes are effective in enhancing knowledge and attitudes regarding anthrax prevention among tribal communities. It highlights the importance of culturally appropriate health education strategies in reducing zoonotic disease risks in endemic areas. Further research is recommended to validate these findings.
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