ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Front. Public Health, 17 June 2025

Sec. Public Health Education and Promotion

Volume 13 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1618292

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding avian influenza among poultry farmers near migratory bird habitats in Guidong County, China

Yan JiangYan Jiang1DaiJun Zhong,DaiJun Zhong1,2Yang HanYang Han1Yong Zhou
Yong Zhou1*HaiJian Zhou
HaiJian Zhou3*
  • 1Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Xiangnan University, Chenzhou, China
  • 2Department of Parasitic and Vector-borne Disease Control, Changjiang County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changjiang, China
  • 3Institute for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors (KAP) regarding avian influenza among poultry farmers living near migratory bird habitats in Guidong County, China, and to identify determinants of these practices using structural equation modeling.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in July 2021 among 221 poultry farmers from three towns adjacent to migratory bird habitats. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on KAP related to avian influenza. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze KAP levels. A structural equation model was developed with AMOS 24.0 to examine the relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.

Results: The overall mean KAP score was 32.97 ± 7.95 (51.5%) of maximum possible score, indicating suboptimal levels. In the fitted model, knowledge exerted both a direct effect on preventive behaviors (standardized path coefficient = 0.183) and an indirect effect mediated through attitudes (0.056). Attitude additionally influenced behavior directly (0.181). Goodness-of-fit indices confirmed robust model fit.

Conclusion: Study findings indicate that poultry farmers living near migratory bird habitats in Guidong County demonstrate insufficient avian influenza–related knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Targeted health education that enhances accurate knowledge and fosters positive attitudes is critical to strengthening preventive behaviors and mitigating transmission risk.

Introduction

Zoonotic diseases have increasingly commanded global attention over the past four decades, with studies indicating that approximately 60% of emerging infectious diseases originate from animals and around 70% are linked to wildlife reservoirs (1). Among these pathogens, avian influenza is particularly concerning in the 21st century due to its ability to cause severe respiratory infections and its potential to mutate via antigenic drift or shift—processes that not only precipitate outbreaks in domestic poultry but also raise the risk of interspecies transmission (2, 3). These events have profound implications for both human health and economic stability worldwide (4).

Migratory birds are recognized as natural reservoirs of avian influenza viruses and play a crucial role in their dissemination (5). Since these birds generally do not exhibit any symptoms during migration, they can both carry and spread the virus, thereby complicating detection efforts. When the virus contaminates water sources in their habitats, it becomes highly likely to infect nearby domestic poultry, establishing a transmission chain at the regional level (6). Moreover, the high variability of avian influenza viruses raises the potential for cross-species transmission to humans, which can ultimately lead to influenza outbreaks (7). Although the transmission of avian influenza viruses from birds to humans is rare, documented cases indicate that certain subtypes like H5N1, H5N8, H7N9, and H9N2 can infect humans and even facilitate human-to-human spread (8, 9). For example, migratory birds spreading the H5 influenza virus, causing three waves of influenza outbreaks across various regions (1, 3). Since 2003, several H5N1 outbreaks in South Korea have been linked to migratory birds (10). Additionally, between 2018 and 2020, 19 strains of the H7N7 avian influenza virus were identified in migratory birds in eastern China (11). The avian influenza viruses carried by migratory birds pose a significant threat to the poultry industry along their migration routes.

China lies along three major migratory flyways, posing unique challenges for avian disease prevention and control, especially in regions where poultry rearing is ubiquitous (12). To address this, we focus on Guidong County, Hunan Province. (The geographical coordinates are 113°37′ east longitude—114°14′, 25°44′ —26°13′ north latitude) —located along a central migratory flyway known as the “Millennium Bird Passage”—exacerbates the challenges of preventing and controlling avian diseases. Here, nearly every household engages in poultry rearing, and the close proximity of wild birds to domestic flocks increases the risk of virus recombination and potential transmission to humans (1315). Although no major outbreaks have been reported in Guidong County to date, sporadic human infections (e.g., cases involving H3N8 in nearby cities) and genetic evidence suggesting mixed infections from wild and domestic birds underscore the latent risk (16, 17). Despite these risks, no studies have systematically investigated prevention behaviors in such ecologically vulnerable populations—a gap this study aims to fill.

The Knowledge-Attitude-Practice (KAP) model provides a robust framework for understanding health behavior determinants, proposing that individuals first acquire knowledge, which shapes their attitudes and beliefs, and ultimately drives practice (18). Numerous studies have investigated KAP regarding avian influenza prevention among general populations and poultry-related occupational groups in countries such as China, Nigeria, and India (1822). For example, during five outbreaks in China between 2013 and 2017, 91 of 695 infected cases involved occupational poultry contact (20), yet many live-bird market workers still underestimate their risk and rarely adopt recommended preventive measures (23). Despite sustained efforts by Chinese authorities—including health education campaigns, market closures, and mandatory culling of infected flocks, the persistence of noncompliance among some farmers has limited these measures’ effectiveness (24, 25). Systematically employing the KAP (Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice) framework in avian influenza research, we explicitly test three hypotheses: (1) Knowledge-Action Disconnect: High-risk poultry farmers exhibit poorer KAP compliance compared to general occupational groups, despite comparable avian influenza knowledge levels. (2) Geographic Determinants: Proximity to migratory corridors directly correlates with risk perception and protective behavior adoption. (3) Attitude Mediation: Attitudes mediate the knowledge-to-practice relationship, explaining persistent prevention gaps.

To test these hypotheses, we implemented a cross-sectional study in Guidong County (July 2021) employing structural equation modeling to decode latent relationships between avian influenza knowledge, attitudes, and protective behaviors. This methodology extends conventional KAP research through dual innovations: first, by targeting high-risk populations at the human-wildlife interface; second, by enabling quantitative prioritization of modifiable behavioral factors—providing evidence-based guidance for optimizing prevention protocols in ecologically sensitive zones.

Methods

Study design and participants

This study employed a cross-sectional design and adhered to the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guidelines for reporting observational research. The sample size was determined empirically, following the standard practice of including 5 to 10 times the number of influencing factors under investigation. In July 2021, we conducted a survey among 231 poultry farmers residing in Pule Town, Shatian Town, and Oujiang Town—key migratory bird stopover sites in Guidong County, China. Inclusion criteria for participants were: Poultry farmers who had settled in Guidong County’s migratory bird habitats for at least 1 year; Individuals who provided informed consent and voluntarily participated in the survey.

This study received ethical approval from the Ethics Committee of Xiangnan University (K2024-009-01). All participants provided verbal informed consent prior to their involvement.

Instrument development and validation

The survey instrument was developed through a systematic process involving three key stages: (1) initial questionnaire construction based on comprehensive literature review and expert consultation, (2) pilot testing with 30 target population representatives, and (3) iterative refinement to establish the final version.

The structured questionnaire comprised four validated dimensions:

Demographic characteristics (19 items): Capturing age, gender, occupational classification, and socioeconomic indicators.

Avian influenza knowledge (12 items): Assessing recognition of Clinical manifestations (e.g., febrile respiratory symptoms); Transmission pathways (contact with infected poultry/excreta/migratory birds).

Risk perception attitudes (11 items): Evaluating perceived susceptibility and outbreak concern level.

Protective behaviors (20 items): Documenting PPE usage frequency (masks, aprons, waterproof footwear) during poultry handling operations.

In terms of scoring, for the knowledge section, 1 point was assigned for “yes” responses, and 0 points for “no” or “unclear” responses. A higher score indicated a higher level of knowledge. For the attitude section, Responses indicating a positive attitude were assigned 2 points, neutral responses received 1 point, and negative responses were given 0 points. The behavior section was assessed using a 4-point Likert scale, where “always” was assigned 4 points, “often” 3 points, “rarely” 2 points, and “never” 1 point.

The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were assessed, yielding an overall Cronbach’s α coefficient of 0.865, indicating good internal consistency. Specifically, the Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.893 for the avian influenza-related knowledge dimension, 0.710 for the attitude dimension, and 0.762 for the behavior dimension, further supporting the questionnaire’s reliability. Additionally, the overall Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure was 0.825, with values of 0.896 for the knowledge dimension, 0.699 for the attitude dimension, and 0.784 for the behavior dimension. Bartlett’s test of sphericity yielded p-values of less than 0.001 across all dimensions, confirming the questionnaire’s good construct validity.

The different dimensions were analyzed using maximum and minimum values, mean ± standard deviation, and scoring rate. The scoring rate was determined using the formula: Scoring rate = (Actual score of the overall questionnaire or dimension / Possible maximum score of the overall questionnaire or dimension) × 100%. Based on the scoring rate, scores below 60% were categorized as poor, 60–80% as moderate, and above 80% as good. This classification system was applied to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to avian influenza among poultry farmers in the migratory bird habitats surrounding Guidong County.

Quality control

This study utilized door-to-door household surveys, conducting one-on-one interviews with participants in their residences. After obtaining verbal informed consent from participants, the surveys were distributed and completed under standardized protocols. All surveyors completed a training program including questionnaire administration simulations and role-playing exercises to ensure consistent interpretation of items. For individuals with literacy difficulties, trained surveyors provided assistance by reading each item aloud in a neutral and non-suggestive manner. Upon completion, researchers conducted an on-site review to check for completeness and accuracy before collecting the surveys.

Statistical analysis

Data were entered into Excel and analyzed using SPSS 25.0 Qualitative data were presented as frequencies and proportions, while quantitative data following a normal distribution were summarized using the mean and standard deviation to represent central tendency and dispersion. For non-normally distributed quantitative data, the median and interquartile range were used. Spearman’s correlation analysis was conducted to examine the associations among the three dimensions of avian influenza knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). Additionally, a structural equation model (SEM) was developed using Amos 24.0, where the knowledge dimension was treated as an exogenous latent variable, while attitudes and behaviors were considered endogenous latent variables. The structural relationships among these latent variables were established, fitted, and refined, with a significance level set at α = 0.05.

Results

Sociodemographic characteristics

In this study, a total of 221 valid questionnaires were collected, yielding an effective response rate of 99.55%. Among the respondents, 130 were female (58.8%), and 87 individuals (39.4%) were aged 45–59 years. A total of 33 participants (14.9%) had no formal education, while 193 (87.3%) were married. Additionally, 34 respondents (15.4%) rated their current health status as very good, and 161 (72.9%) reported a monthly income of ≤ 1,000 yuan. Regarding poultry farming, 219 participants (99.1%) were engaged in free-range poultry farming. In terms of poultry types, 136 individuals (61.5%) raised chickens. Additionally, 157 participants (71.0%) spent less than 1 hour per day on poultry-related work. In the past year, 5 respondents (2.3%) had contact with migratory birds, while 27 (12.20%) experienced influenza-like symptoms (Table 1).

Table 1
www.frontiersin.org

Table 1. Participant demographics and characteristics.

Knowledge, attitude, and behavior practices status

Overall score of the questionnaire on knowledge, attitude, and practices

In this survey, the overall score range of the questionnaire assessing poultry farmers’ knowledge, attitude, and behavior toward avian influenza around the migratory bird habitat was between 10 and 51 points, with an average score of 32.97 ± 7.95. The overall scoring rate of the questionnaire was 51.51%, which is considered to be at a poor level. Detailed scores for each dimension are provided in Figure 1.

Figure 1
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 1. The score distributions of knowledge, attitude, practices and KAP.

Knowledge awareness of avian influenza among poultry farmers around the migratory bird habitat in Guidong County

The highest level of awareness was observed for the statement, “Eating eggs, poultry meat, etc., only after they are thoroughly cooked can prevent human avian influenza,” with an awareness rate of 74.66%. In contrast, the lowest awareness was recorded for the statement, “Fever, cough, and sore throat are early symptoms of avian influenza infection,” with only 30.77% of respondents answering correctly. Additionally, merely 40.27% of participants recognized that avian influenza in humans can be transmitted through contact with migratory birds (Table 2).

Table 2
www.frontiersin.org

Table 2. Knowledge awareness of avian influenza among poultry farmers around the migratory bird habitat in Guidong.

Attitudes toward avian influenza among poultry farmers around the migratory bird habitat in Guidong County

A total of 85.1% of respondents acknowledged the need to strengthen personal protective measures against avian influenza, and 80.09% expressed a willingness to gain more knowledge about the disease. However, only 12.22% believed they were personally at risk of contracting avian influenza, and just 20.36% considered it likely that the disease could occur in their local area (Table 3).

Table 3
www.frontiersin.org

Table 3. Attitudes toward avian influenza among poultry farmers around the migratory bird habitat in Guidong.

Behavioral practices regarding avian influenza among poultry farmers around the migratory bird habitat in Guidong County

A total of 77.82% of participants reported that they consistently ventilate poultry houses. However, only 7.69, 3.62, 4.52, and 9.50% indicated that they adopt personal protective measures such as wearing a uniform/apron, a mask, gloves, and boots/waterproof shoes, respectively, when handling live poultry (Table 4).

Table 4
www.frontiersin.org

Table 4. Behavioral practices situation of avian influenza among poultry farmers around the migratory bird habitat in Guidong.

Correlation analysis of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to avian influenza

Spearman correlation analysis revealed statistically significant positive correlations among the knowledge, attitude, and practice scores of poultry farmers regarding avian influenza in the migratory bird habitat of Guidong County (p < 0.01) (Figure 2).

Figure 2
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 2. The correlation of knowledge, attitude, and practice among poultry farmers around the migratory bird sites in Guidong. ***p < 0.01.

Construction and validation of the structural equation model

An initial structural equation model (SEM) was developed using AMOS 24.0, based on the following hypotheses: H1: Knowledge of avian influenza directly influences prevention and control behaviors; H2: Attitudes toward avian influenza directly influence prevention and control behaviors; H3: Knowledge indirectly influences prevention and control behaviors through attitudes.

The model included three latent variables: Avian influenza knowledge (exogenous), with 12 observed variables. Attitudes and prevention and control behaviors (endogenous), with 8 and 7 observed variables, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis led to the removal of items 1, 9, 10, 11, and 12 from the knowledge dimension; items 2, 3, 4, and 12 from the behavior dimension; and items 5, 6, 7, 10, and 11 from the attitude dimension. To improve model fit, the residuals e11 and e17 were correlated based on the Modification Indices. Variable assignments for both latent and observed variables are presented in Table 5.

Table 5
www.frontiersin.org

Table 5. Latent variables and measured variables assignment table.

The revised and optimized SEM for avian influenza KAP among poultry farmers in Guidong County’s migratory bird habitat is illustrated in Figure 3.

Figure 3
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 3. The final SEM. Rectangle shows observed variables, ellipses indicate potential variables, and circles represent residual terms. The values of single-headed arrows represent the standardized coefficients. All paths were significant (p < 0.05).

Model fit and path analysis

The final model demonstrated a good fit with the following indices: Chi/DF = 1.101, GFI = 0.956, AGFI = 0.935, RMR = 0.024, and RMSEA = 0.021, all within acceptable thresholds (Table 6).

Table 6
www.frontiersin.org

Table 6. The fit indices of structural equation model (SEM).

Path analysis supported all three proposed hypotheses (p < 0.05). Knowledge of avian influenza had a direct positive effect on prevention and control behaviors, with a standardized effect size of 0.183. It also had an indirect positive effect via attitudes, with an effect size of 0.056. The total effect of knowledge on behavior was 0.239. Additionally, attitudes had a direct positive effect on prevention and control behaviors, with a standardized effect size of 0.181 (Table 7).

Table 7
www.frontiersin.org

Table 7. Hypothesis testing results for path coefficients of knowledge, attitude and practice.

Discussion

In this study, we conducted the first systematic KAP assessment among poultry farmers in Guidong County—an ecologically vulnerable node along central China’s migratory bird flyway. The complex relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors were analyzed. The findings revealed that the overall KAP score was only 51.51%, indicating a poor level. Specifically, the knowledge score was 57.20%, the attitude score 52.58%, and the behavior score merely 47.42%. These low scores may be attributed to the underdeveloped economy of Guidong County and its insufficient investment in public health infrastructure. Migratory birds are known vectors for the transregional spread of avian influenza viruses, such as H5N1 and H7N9 subtypes (26). Their frequent presence significantly increases the exposure risk for local poultry (27). While our observational design precludes causal claims, the observed deficiencies in both awareness and protective behaviors among farmers suggest a potential transmission chain of “migratory birds – domestic poultry – humans.” These insights are crucial for optimizing prevention and control strategies in high-risk areas.

Although a majority of participants (74.2%) were aware of the proper disposal methods for sick or dead birds, only 30.8% recognized early avian influenza symptoms, and 66.1% overestimated human-to-human transmission risk. These figures exceed those reported in a similar study from India (28). Such gaps in knowledge pose dual threats: delayed symptom recognition may hinder early detection and isolation, while exaggerated fears of human transmission could provoke irrational responses, such as the misuse of antibiotics. Therefore, in migratory bird regions, health education should emphasize the cognitive chain of “symptom recognition — timely reporting — scientific disposal.”

The significant disparity between attitude and behavior scores highlights a deeper issue: while 85.07% of participants acknowledged the importance of protective measures, only a small fraction reported using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves when handling poultry. This aligns with findings by Ayim-Akonor et al. (19). Evidence shows that using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves reduces avian influenza virus transmission (29). Yet, only 12.22% of participants perceived themselves at risk, indicating a “knowing-but-not-doing” phenomenon (30). This discrepancy may be explained through the lens of the Health Belief Model (HBM), where low perceived susceptibility (“I am unlikely to get infected”) and perceived barriers (e.g., cost or discomfort of PPE use) outweigh perceived benefits (31). Misunderstandings about avian influenza may result in inappropriate behaviors, undermining disease prevention efforts and potentially exacerbating risks (12). Hence, future health education should not only focus on disseminating accurate information but also improve risk perception, practical skills, and rectify flawed attitudes.

Structural equation modeling demonstrated that both knowledge and attitudes were associated with preventive behaviors toward avian influenza. Previous studies have confirmed that individuals with higher levels of awareness are more likely to adopt appropriate preventive attitudes and behaviors (32) In line with the KAP framework, insufficient knowledge, low perceived risk, and inadequate practices collectively contribute to increased infection risk (15). Knowledge influences behavior indirectly via attitude, and this indirect effect was found to be stronger than the direct effect. However, as this cross-sectional study cannot establish temporal precedence, alternative interpretations remain plausible. As a necessary condition for behavioral change, knowledge must be coupled with favorable attitudes to foster practice improvement (22, 33). Therefore, avian influenza health education should emphasize not only knowledge dissemination but also attitudinal transformation to bridge the gap between awareness and action.

Our study was conducted during a distinctive phase of China’s COVID-19 pandemic management. The research period (July 2021) coincided with a time when nationwide pandemic control measures had been fully lifted, resulting in minimal COVID-19-related restrictions. This operational context allowed uninterrupted implementation of household surveys along migratory bird routes, where investigators conducted door-to-door questionnaires with poultry farmers. A key strength of this study lies in its systematic spatial coverage of farming communities adjacent to migratory pathways, which reduced selection bias. Furthermore, this research represents the first KAP investigation explicitly linking avian biogeography (e.g., Central Asian Flyway dynamics) with human behavioral determinants—an underexplored interface in poultry worker studies.

This study has several limitations. Due to its cross-sectional design, causal relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and practices cannot be firmly established. For instance, inadequate protective behavior may demotivate individuals from acquiring relevant knowledge. Future studies should consider a longitudinal design with intervention-control components to evaluate the effectiveness of health education. Second, while our survey encompassed most poultry farmers along migratory routes, some individuals were unavailable during data collection. This convenience sampling approach may have led to an overestimation of the population’s KAP levels. It is recommended that future research expand the sampling scope and incorporate contextual environmental variables such as migratory bird activity and poultry density to construct a multi-level risk prediction model. Finally, given the study’s timing during pandemic normalization, subsequent research should track behavioral changes across post-COVID recovery phases to clarify lasting impacts on biosecurity practices, particularly regarding sustained mask usage and risk perception evolution.

In conclusion, poultry farmers in Guidong County’s migratory bird habitats exhibit suboptimal KAP levels regarding avian influenza. Accurate knowledge and a positive attitude are crucial for improving farmers’ preventive behaviors. Based on the ecological characteristics of migratory birds, and the study population predominantly comprised individuals aged 45 years and older, with most having attained junior high school education or lower, a “three-in-one” intervention strategy is proposed: (1) Knowledge Enhancement: Develop dialect-specific multimedia educational materials in local dialects focusing on symptom recognition and common misconceptions; (2) Behavior Promotion: Provide governmental subsidies for PPE and include masks and gloves in essential farming supplies, coupled with training programs to improve protective awareness and skills; (3) Institutional Support: Establish a joint prevention mechanism including “risk alerts during migratory seasons – routine disinfection – behavioral monitoring,” with implementation responsibilities delegated to village committees. This integrated model may not only reduce zoonotic transmission risks but also enhance biosecurity in farming and support rural revitalization initiatives.

Data availability statement

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

Ethics statement

The studies involving humans were approved by the Ethics Committee of Xiangnan University. The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. Written informed consent for participation was not required from the participants or the participants’ legal guardians/next of kin in accordance with the national legislation and institutional requirements.

Author contributions

YJ: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Funding acquisition, Investigation, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Software, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. DZ: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Software, Writing – original draft. YH: Writing – review & editing. YZ: Formal analysis, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – review & editing. HZ: Funding acquisition, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – review & editing.

Funding

The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This study was supported in part by the 2024 Hunan Provincial Department of Education Scientific Research Project (#24C0494) and China CDC Cross-sectional Research Project (#2021E27).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Generative AI statement

The authors declare that Generative AI was used in the creation of this manuscript. The authors states that only AI and AI-assisted technologies were used during the writing process to enhance readability.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

References

1. Sleeman, JM, DeLiberto, T, and Nguyen, N. Optimization of human, animal, and environmental health by using the one health approach. J Vet Sci. (2017) 18:263–8. doi: 10.4142/jvs.2017.18.S1.263

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

2. Layton, DS, Butler, J, Stewart, C, Stevens, V, Payne, J, Rootes, C, et al. H7n9 bearing a mutation in the nucleoprotein leads to increased pathology in chickens. Front Immunol. (2022) 13:974210. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.974210

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

3. Kang, Y, Shen, X, Yuan, R, Xiang, B, Fang, Z, Murphy, RW, et al. Pathogenicity and transmissibility of three avian influenza a (h5n6) viruses isolated from wild birds. J Infect. (2018) 76:286–94. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2017.12.012

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

4. Blagodatski, A, Trutneva, K, Glazova, O, Mityaeva, O, Shevkova, L, Kegeles, E, et al. Avian influenza in wild birds and poultry: dissemination pathways, monitoring methods, and virus ecology. Pathogens. (2021) 10:630. doi: 10.3390/pathogens10050630

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

5. Yang, L, and Fan, M. Reaction-advection-diffusion model of highly pathogenic avian influenza with behavior of migratory wild birds. J Math Biol. (2025) 90:18. doi: 10.1007/s00285-024-02181-x

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

6. Martelli, L, Fornasiero, D, Scarton, F, Spada, A, Scolamacchia, F, Manca, G, et al. Study of the interface between wild bird populations and poultry and their potential role in the spread of avian influenza. Microorganisms. (2023) 11:2601. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms11102601

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

7. Lei, X, Jing, S, Zeng, X, Lin, Y, Li, X, Xing, Q, et al. Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards avian influenza among live poultry market workers in Chongqing, China. Prev Vet Med. (2019) 162:151–9. doi: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2018.12.004

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

8. Adlhoch, C, Alm, E, Enkirch, T, Lamb, F, Melidou, A, Willgert, K, et al. Drivers for a pandemic due to avian influenza and options for one health mitigation measures. EFSA J. (2024) 22:e8735. doi: 10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8735

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

9. Yang, XY, Gong, QL, Li, YJ, Ata, EB, Hu, MJ, Sun, YY, et al. The global prevalence of highly pathogenic avian influenza a (h5n8) infection in birds: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Microb Pathog. (2023) 176:106001. doi: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106001

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

10. Ntakiyisumba, E, Lee, S, Park, BY, Tae, HJ, and Won, G. Prevalence, seroprevalence and risk factors of avian influenza in wild bird populations in Korea: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Viruses. (2023) 15:472. doi: 10.3390/v15020472

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

11. Zhao, C, Guo, J, Zeng, X, Shi, J, Deng, G, Zhang, Y, et al. Novel h7n7 avian influenza viruses detected in migratory wild birds in eastern China between 2018 and 2020. Microbes Infect. (2022) 24:105013. doi: 10.1016/j.micinf.2022.105013

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

12. More, S, Bicout, D, Botner, A, Butterworth, A, Calistri, P, Depner, K, et al. Avian influenza. EFSA J. (2017) 15:e4991. doi: 10.2903/j.efsa.2017.4991

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

13. Shi, J, Zeng, X, Cui, P, Yan, C, and Chen, H. Alarming situation of emerging h5 and h7 avian influenza and effective control strategies. Emerg Microbes Infect. (2023) 12:2155072. doi: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2155072

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

14. Xie, Q, and Deng, R. Why many migratory birds migrate through Hunan Guidong. For China. (2009) 21:25.

Google Scholar

15. Lambrou, AS, Luitel, H, Bhattarai, RK, Basnet, HB, and Heaney, CD. Informing influenza pandemic preparedness using commercial poultry farmer knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) surrounding biosecurity and self-reported avian influenza outbreaks in Nepal. One Health. (2020) 11:100189. doi: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2020.100189

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

16. Yang, R, Sun, H, Gao, F, Luo, K, Huang, Z, Tong, Q, et al. Human infection of avian influenza a h3n8 virus and the viral origins: a descriptive study. Lancet Microbe. (2022) 3:e824–34. doi: 10.1016/S2666-5247(22)00192-6

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

17. Wang, Y, Li, X, Lv, X, Li, Y, An, Q, Xiu, Y, et al. H6n2 reassortant avian influenza virus isolate in wild birds in Jiangxi province, China. Virus Genes. (2024) 60:320–4. doi: 10.1007/s11262-024-02068-5

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

18. Delgado-Hernandez, B, Mugica, L, Acosta, M, Perez, F, Montano, D, Abreu, Y, et al. Knowledge, attitudes, and risk perception toward avian influenza virus exposure among Cuban hunters. Front Public Health. (2021) 9:644786. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.644786

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

19. Mangiri, A, Iuliano, AD, Wahyuningrum, Y, Praptiningsih, CY, Lafond, KE, Storms, AD, et al. Physician's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding seasonal influenza, pandemic influenza, and highly pathogenic avian influenza a (h5n1) virus infections of humans in Indonesia. Influenza Other Respir Viruses. (2017) 11:93–9. doi: 10.1111/irv.12428

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

20. Chen, S, Li, Z, Hu, M, Guo, S, Wu, J, Wang, B, et al. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) relating to avian influenza (H10N8) among farmers' markets workers in Nanchang, China. PLoS One. (2015) 10:e127120. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127120

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

21. Elelu, N. Epidemiological risk factors of knowledge and preventive practice regarding avian influenza among poultry farmers and live bird traders in ikorodu, Lagos state, Nigeria. Int J Vet Sci Med. (2017) 5:47–52. doi: 10.1016/j.ijvsm.2017.03.002

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

22. Wang, X, Jiang, H, Wu, P, Uyeki, TM, Feng, L, Lai, S, et al. Epidemiology of avian influenza a h7n9 virus in human beings across five epidemics in mainland China, 2013-17: an epidemiological study of laboratory-confirmed case series. Lancet Infect Dis. (2017) 17:822–32. doi: 10.1016/S1473-3099(17)30323-7

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

23. Fournie, G, Guitian, FJ, Mangtani, P, and Ghani, AC. Impact of the implementation of rest days in live bird markets on the dynamics of h5n1 highly pathogenic avian influenza. J R Soc Interface. (2011) 8:1079–89. doi: 10.1098/rsif.2010.0510

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

24. Lam, TT, Zhou, B, Wang, J, Chai, Y, Shen, Y, Chen, X, et al. Dissemination, divergence and establishment of H7N9 influenza viruses in China. Nature. (2015) 522:102–5. doi: 10.1038/nature14348

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

25. MacCallum, RC, Widaman, KF, Preacher, KJ, and Hong, S. Sample size in factor analysis: the role of model error. Multivar Behav Res. (2001) 36:611–37. doi: 10.1207/S15327906MBR3604_06

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

26. Mosaad, Z, Elhusseiny, MH, Zanaty, A, Fathy, MM, Hagag, NM, Mady, WH, et al. Emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza a virus (h5n1) of clade 2.3.4.4b in Egypt, 2021-2022. Pathogens. (2023) 12:90. doi: 10.3390/pathogens12010090

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

27. Catalan, SH, and Cruz-Ausejo, L. Preventive, safety and control measures against avian influenza a(H5N1) in occupationally exposed groups: a scoping review. One Health. (2024) 19:100766. doi: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100766

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

28. Mahadevan, C, Mikkilineni, R, Vyas, N, and Karabasanavar, N. Assessment of knowledge and biosecurity practices related to avian influenza among poultry workers in a district of South India. J Public Health Manag Pract. (2024) 30:674–80. doi: 10.1097/PHH.0000000000001914

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

29. Marshall, KE, Drehoff, CC, Alden, N, Montoya, S, Stringer, G, Kohnen, A, et al. Personal protective equipment use by dairy farmworkers exposed to cows infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza a(h5n1) viruses - Colorado, 2024. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. (2024) 73:999–1003. doi: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7344a2

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

30. Pao, HN, Jackson, E, Yang, TS, Tsai, JS, Hwang, YT, Sung, W, et al. The attitude-behaviour gap in biosecurity: applying social theories to understand the relationships between commercial chicken farmers' attitudes and behaviours. Front Vet Sci. (2023) 10:1070482. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1070482

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

31. Taflinger, S, and Sattler, S. A situational test of the health belief model: how perceived susceptibility mediates the effects of the environment on behavioral intentions. Soc Sci Med. (2024) 346:116715. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116715

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

32. Li, H, Daszak, F, Chmura, A, Zhang, Y, Terry, P, and Fielder, M. Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding zoonotic risk in wildlife trade, southern China. EcoHealth. (2021) 18:95–106. doi: 10.1007/s10393-021-01532-0

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

33. Chen, S, Jiang, Y, Tang, X, Gan, L, Xiong, Y, Chen, T, et al. Research on knowledge, attitudes, and practices of influenza vaccination among healthcare workers in Chongqing, China-based on structural equation model. Front Public Health. (2022) 10:853041. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.853041

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: migratory birds, avian influenza, knowledge-attitudes-practices, health education, structural equation modeling

Citation: Jiang Y, Zhong D, Han Y, Zhou Y and Zhou H (2025) Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding avian influenza among poultry farmers near migratory bird habitats in Guidong County, China. Front. Public Health. 13:1618292. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1618292

Received: 25 April 2025; Accepted: 29 May 2025;
Published: 17 June 2025.

Edited by:

Sasho Stoleski, Saints Cyril and Methodius University of Skopje, North Macedonia

Reviewed by:

Ana Cláudia Coelho, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Portugal
Sujarwoto Sujarwoto, University of Brawijaya, Indonesia
Sandeep Poddar, Lincoln University College, Malaysia

Copyright © 2025 Jiang, Zhong, Han, Zhou and Zhou. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Yong Zhou, emhvdXlvbmdAeG51LmVkdS5jbg==; HaiJian Zhou, emhqXzA5MDFAMTYzLmNvbQ==

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.