Use of infection control practices among Ghanaian veterinary professionals

Background: With the surge in infectious disease pandemics, understanding and improving infection control and prevention practices among veterinary professionals who often interact with animals is critical. In Ghana, limited studies have assessed adherence to infection control practices (ICPs) among this group. Objective: This study assessed the use of ICPs among Ghanaian veterinary professionals, including veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and technicians. Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 150 veterinary professionals in Ghana from April to July 2022. Descriptive statistics were adopted to analyze demographics and ICP usage. Pearson’s Chi-square test assessed associations between demographic variables and low precaution awareness (PA), with significance at p < 0.05. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, with tables and graphs generated in Microsoft Excel. Results: Majority of respondents (73.3%) reported always washing hands before eating, drinking, or smoking at work. However, 70.7% were not vaccinated against rabies. 31.3% neglected respiratory or eye protection when assisting parturition. Gender, qualification, weekly work hours, and practice characteristics were significantly associated with low PA (p = 0.02, 0.001, 0.006, and 0.001). Conclusion: The study further established the need for continuous education, strengthened policies on ICPs, and mass sensitization to improve rabies vaccination coverage among Ghanaian veterinary professionals.