Zoonotic Disease Risk Perception and Use of Personal Protective Measures among Wildlife Biologists: An Application of the Health Belief Model

Abstract

In November 2007, a National Park Service (NPS) wildlife biologist died from pneumonic plague after unprotected contact with an infected mountain lion. To begin to assess perceptions of zoonotic disease risk and attitudes toward personal protective measures among NPS biologists, two focus-group discussions were held in September 2008 with 12 biologists from 10 parks. Each facilitator-led discussion lasted approximately 75 minutes. Common themes were identified from audio transcripts and field notes and interpreted according to the Health Belief Model. Participants described cautious, but not overly concerned, perceptions of risk. Barriers to personal protective measures included challenges associated with field environments and lack of mandatory continuing education on zoonotic diseases. In contrast, NPS-supported guidance and supervisors who emphasize safety facilitated personal protection. These findings could have implications for developing practical interventions to improve zoonotic disease prevention among wildlife professionals.

Keywords:

• zoonoses
• risk perception
• wildlife biologists
• plague
• National Park Service
• Health Belief Model

Notes

The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.