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Article History

Received: 7 November 2024

Accepted: 24 January 2025

First Online: 4 February 2025

Declarations

:

: The study has several limitations. First, due to the cross-sectional nature of the study, it cannot establish relationship between the independent variables and the outcome of interest. Additionally, parasitic and microbiological laboratory investigations were not included in this study. The study may also be influenced by social desirability bias, with food handlers potentially providing socially acceptable responses rather than reflecting their true practices. The small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings to the broader population of food handlers. These limitations may affect the interpretation of the results, and caution is needed when applying them to a large context. Despite these limitations, the study is a baseline and provides important insights that can guide future research and public health efforts in the region.

: The ethical clearance was obtained from the Research Ethical Review Committee of the University of Hargeisa (Ref. No: DRCS/005/02/2024), and approval letter was received from the Ministry of Health, Somaliland (Authorization no. MOHD/DG: 2/232/2024). Written informed consent was requested, and the research methodology was clearly explained to participants in their native languages. Participants were assured of their right to decline or withdraw from the study at any time. The study was conducted in accordance with applicable guidelines and regulations, following the Helsinki Declaration.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.

: Not applicable.