Perception of professionals of the family health strategy on diseases transmitted by water and food

Abstract

The article assesses the knowledge of professionals working in Basic Health Units (UBS) in rural areas about diseases transmitted by water and food. The work was carried out in partnership with the Environmental Surveillance sector of the Municipal Health Department of Pelotas and covered UBS in the rural area of ​​the municipality of Pelotas, RS. Two questionnaires were applied to workers at ten UBS. Most of the participants, in the first (73.3%) and in the second questionnaire (79.5%), had not received training on the topics covered, however, they had some knowledge about water and foodborne diseases. Health professionals with a high level of education should have access to basic health and sanitation information. The development of a continuing education program on water quality and food-borne diseases would make these professionals more trained and safer to adequately guide the community about the risks and prevention of DTAs.