Q fever prevention: perspectives from university animal science and veterinary students and livestock farmers

Abstract

Objective: To explore animal science and veterinary students’ and livestock farmers’ perceptions concerning Q fever prevention. Design: An online survey with an open-ended question seeking knowledge and perceptions about Q fever prevention was distributed among participants during March-September 2019. We applied thematic analysis to identify emerging themes. Setting: Animal science and veterinary students enrolled at the University of Adelaide and members of Livestock South Australia representing cattle, sheep and goat farmers in South Australia. Participants: A total of 56 animal science and veterinary students and 154 livestock farmers responded to the open-ended question. Interventions: Not applicable. Main outcome measures: Perceived challenges and opportunities for a coordinated Q fever prevention approach including human vaccination reported by the participants. Results: Two major themes arose in each group. Students and farmers viewed Q fever vaccination as important. However, excessive cost for students was a barrier and for farmers, it was general practitioners' lack of knowledge of Q fever and access to an accredited immunisation provider. Similarly, both groups highlighted the need for education and increasing public and community awareness of Q fever. Conclusion: Our findings underscore that a sector-wide approach involving community awareness programmes, education and training for general practitioners, and subsidised vaccination as well as commitment from government and industry partners may contribute to reducing the burden of Q fever among at-risk populations.