Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward avian influenza among free-grazing duck farmers in Central Thailand: An analytical cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Free-grazing duck (FGD) production systems play a vital economic role in Thailand but are also recognized as potential sources and amplifiers of avian influenza (AI) viruses at the human–animal–environment interface. Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of individuals involved in FGD production is crucial for effective prevention and control of AI. This study aimed to assess AI-related KAP levels among FGD farmers and related workers in central Thailand and to identify demographic, occupational, and behavioral factors linked to these KAP outcomes. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to May 2023, involving 101 participants working in FGD production systems across Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, and Nakhon Sawan provinces. Data were obtained through face-to-face interviews using a structured, expert-validated questionnaire that covered socio-demographic details, animal exposure, vaccination history, and AI-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices. KAP scores were determined using standardized scoring criteria. The relationships between KAP scores and explanatory variables were analyzed using simple and multiple linear regression. Results: The average knowledge score was 8.65 ± 2.39 (out of 12), the average attitude score was 3.63 ± 0.36 (out of 5), and the average practice score was 3.17 ± 0.38 (out of 5). Overall, 58.4% of participants demonstrated good knowledge, 66.3% exhibited positive attitudes, and 38.6% reported good preventive practices against AI. Knowledge scores were significantly linked to daily working hours with FGDs, contact with other animals, and influenza vaccination history. Positive attitudes were significantly influenced by educational level and occupation, while good practices were associated with higher education, type of FGD production system, animal contact, and vaccination during poultry work. Moderate positive correlations were observed between knowledge and attitude scores and between attitude and practice scores. Conclusion: This study offers the first comprehensive assessment of KAP regarding AI among FGD farmers in Thailand. Although knowledge and attitudes about AI were generally adequate, preventive measures were relatively inadequate. Improving targeted public health education, increasing vaccination awareness, and implementing One Health–based biosecurity measures are recommended to boost AI prevention and readiness in FGD production systems.