Kediri, East Java – Students from the Community Service Program (KKN) at Universitas Brawijaya conducted an education and routine livestock health check programme in Medowo Village, Kediri Regency, as part of efforts to prevent and control brucellosis. The programme aimed to raise awareness among the community, particularly livestock farmers, about the importance of regular health checks for livestock to maintain the quality of animals and public health.
The activities took place from June 6 to June 18, 2024, in Medowo Village, Kediri Regency, East Java. The focus of the programme was on educating the community about the risks and management of brucellosis, which was divided into several subtopics, such as the management of dairy cow milk processing to reduce the risk of brucellosis, health and hygiene practices (PHBS) to prevent the transmission of brucellosis, safe meat practices, biosecurity and biosafety management, as well as how to diagnose brucellosis to improve animal health and food safety.
Brucellosis is a contagious disease that can affect livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep, and can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals or their products. This disease not only harms the livestock sector by reducing productivity but is also dangerous to human health, as it can lead to brucellosis in humans, also known as Malta fever.
In this KKN programme, students provided education to farmers about the symptoms, modes of transmission, and preventive measures of brucellosis. The education also covered ways to maintain sanitation in barns, environmental cleanliness, and the importance of vaccination and routine health checks. In addition to providing education, the KKN team also conducted direct examinations alongside local veterinarians on livestock at several farms in the village.
Socialisation to Several Farmers and the Community of the Village
This two-week KKN programme is expected to have a long-term impact on increasing awareness among the community in Medowo Village about the importance of livestock health. Additionally, it is hoped that this activity can serve as an initial step towards creating a healthier and more productive farming environment in Kediri Regency.
With routine health checks and increased awareness among farmers, it is expected that the spread of brucellosis can be minimised, thus ensuring better protection for both livestock and public health. (PSIK FKH UB)
