Summary
This survey of 72 UK general practice veterinarians reveals substantial gaps in confidence and capability for diagnosing and managing highly pathogenic avian influenza in backyard poultry flocks. Using the COM-B behaviour change framework, the authors identify capability, opportunity and motivation barriers to accurate HPAI diagnosis and reporting. The findings suggest that addressing these barriers will require system-level interventions beyond individual veterinarian training.
UK applicability
This study directly describes the UK context and identifies critical gaps in general practice veterinary capacity for HPAI surveillance and control in Great Britain. The findings have immediate relevance to UK veterinary policy and animal health governance, suggesting that current frontline veterinary services may be under-equipped to respond to avian influenza threats.
Key measures
Percentage of veterinarians reporting confidence in seeing birds (6% fairly/very confident); proportion lacking confidence in ruling out HPAI as a differential diagnosis (>83%); proportion unsure how to advise clients on suspected HPAI (17.1%)
Outcomes reported
The study reported the proportion of general practice veterinarians in Great Britain who felt confident treating birds and diagnosing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), and identified behavioural barriers using the COM-B framework.
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