Diagnosis before treatment: Identifying dairy farmers’ determinants for the adoption of sustainable practices in gastrointestinal nematode control

Evaluation of a data-driven youngstock rearing quality system in Dutch dairy herds (2019-2022)

In recent years, the Netherlands exhibited an increased focus on improving youngstock rearing. Several data-driven tools were developed to assess and benchmark calf rearing practices based on key indicators, stimulate farmers to improve their youngstock rearing and reduce calf mortality. KalfOK is such a data-driven tool in which a farm-level overview with 15 indicators of youngstock rearing quality is communicated to participating farmers. In this study we assessed which farm characteristics are associated with A) a continuously high or low KalfOK score and B) frequent usage of KalfOK. Data from KalfOK and the identification and registration system were available for all participating herds over a period between 2019 and 2022 (Dataset A). Additionally, a sample of 324 dairy farmers, randomly selected from the entire Dutch dairy population (Dataset B), participated in a voluntary survey. Multivariable (logistic) regression models were used to A) identify differences in characteristics between farms with a continuously high- and farms with a continuously low KalfOK score and B) assess which farm characteristics were associated with frequent use of the KalfOK report. The results of analysis A showed multiple factors associated with having a low or high KalfOK score, including replacement rate, closed farming system, limited growth in herd size and the region where a farm was located. Sociological factors might also partly explain the difference between high and low scoring farms. Analysis B showed that approximately half of the surveyed farmers indicated that they do not frequently use their KalfOK overview in their calf rearing management. The KalfOK score of farmers who regularly use their KalfOK report was higher - and consequently better - compared to the KalfOK score of farmers who sometimes or never use KalfOK. Additionally, farmers using a milk robot and those discussing KalfOK regularly with their veterinarian, used KalfOK more often. Thirty four percent of the surveyed farmers made adjustments to their youngstock rearing management since the start of participation. The study's insights into patterns in KalfOK utilization and associations with farm characteristics provide valuable information for ongoing efforts to enhance calf rearing practices via the use of KalfOK. It is important to consider what is needed to convince farmers that do not use the KalfOK tool to frequently start using their KalfOK report. Future research incorporating sociological aspects can provide a more comprehensive understanding of other dynamics influencing calf rearing and contribute valuable insights for enhancing the effectiveness of programs like KalfOK in promoting calf health and welfare.

An Insight into Practices Associated with the Control of Internal Parasites in the Dairy Goat Herds of Romania: A Questionnaire Survey

The widespread and uncontrolled use of anthelmintic products has contributed to the emergence of anthelmintic resistance (AR). This phenomenon globally threatens the productivity and welfare of small ruminants. A questionnaire consisting of 34 questions was handed to 234 goat farmers across Romania to gain insight into control practices against internal parasites and the farmers' perception of the parasitic infections present in their herds and the efficacy of anthelmintic treatments. The majority of farmers (88.5%) admitted they had never submitted fecal samples for parasitological laboratory analysis, and 77.4% had treated the animals on their own. In general, the farmers dewormed their goats based on visual body weight estimation. Prophylactic anthelmintic treatment was practiced by more than 85% of the farmers. A traditional control approach based on treating the entire herd at fixed time intervals is widespread among Romanian goat and sheep farmers. The most commonly used anthelmintic drugs in the previous 3 years (2021-2023) were benzimidazoles (85.5%) and macrocyclic lactones (81.6%). Poor anthelmintic efficacy was suspected by 14.5% of farmers, and the minority (18.0%) considered internal parasites as a problem in their herds. Regarding the farmers' perception of the presence of parasites, there was a significant level of uncertainty. This is the first survey carried out in Romanian goat herds, and it provides up-to-date information on practices aimed at controlling internal parasites.

Challenges and opportunities for reducing anthelmintic use in ruminant livestock systems: Insights from a sheep farmer survey in France

Today's level of anthelmintic use in livestock production is a major threat to both the livestock industry and the environment. In this context, the research community is looking for ways to equip farmers with preventive and treatment strategies that can decrease livestock-industry dependence on anthelmintics. Production practices for a sustainable control of parasites have been advocated for almost forty years, but farmers' uptake of these practices has been too slow to address the issues at stake. In this paper, we examine the rationales behind the under-adoption of sustainable worm control practices in grassland-based livestock systems. This research builds on 25 semi-structured interviews with dairy sheep farmers in southwestern France. The interview material was analysed via qualitative discourse analysis. We highlight farmers' social representations and rationales underpinning adoption or non-adoption of the 'low anthelmintics use' strategy. We identify six profiles for nematode control according to the way each farmer included treatment and coprology in their on-farm practice. We identify that the low-use strategy has low adoption potential due to its low perceived relative advantage; low perceived trialability; unclear compatibility with previous experiences, needs, and values; and higher complexity than the status quo option. We show that holistic, pro-environmental, and collaborative attitudes are associated with adoption of the low-use strategy. We then discuss ways to improve uptake, such as increased communication, trainings, and farm visits involving farmers, extension agents and veterinarians.

A qualitative study of perceived barriers and facilitators to sustainable parasite control on thoroughbred studs in Ireland

In view of the rising threat of anthelmintic resistance in parasite populations and the planned change of classification of anthelmintics in Ireland for food animals to prescription-only medicines, there is a need for increased focus on parasite control strategies for horses. Effective parasite control programs (PCPs) are complex, necessitating the application of risk-assessment based on host immune status, infection pressure, type of parasite and seasonality to determine the requirement for anthelmintic administration and an understanding of parasite biology to employ effective, non- therapeutic, parasite control measures. The aim of this study was to explore horse breeders' attitudes and behaviours towards general parasite control practices and anthelmintic use on thoroughbred studs in Ireland using qualitative research methods, in order to help identify barriers to the implementation of sustainable equine PCPs supported by veterinary involvement. One-to-one, qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 breeders, using an interview topic guide that allowed for an open questioning style. The topic guide facilitated discussion around the following areas: (i) parasite control measures (general approach, (ii) veterinary involvement, (iii) use of anthelmintics, (iv) use of diagnostics, pasture management), (v) recording of anthelmintic use and (vi) anthelmintic resistance. Convenience, purposive (subjective selection) sampling was used to select a small group of participants that reflected the characteristics of current thoroughbred breeders in Ireland taking into account farm type, farm size, geographical location. The interviews were transcribed, and a method of inductive thematic analysis (a data driven identification and analysis of themes) was performed. Assessment of current behaviours by these participants found that PCPs were primarily based on the prophylactic use of anthelmintics without a strategic rationale. A key driver of behaviour regarding parasite prevention practices was localised routine, dictated by tradition, that gave breeders a sense of confidence and protection regarding parasite control. The perceptions of the benefits of parasitology diagnostics were varied and their application to control was poorly understood. Anthelmintic resistance was recognised as an industry threat but not an issue for individual farms. By using a qualitative approach, this study offers insights into the possible barriers to the adoption of sustainable PCPs on Irish thoroughbred farms and highlights the need for end-user involvement in the preparation of future guidelines.

Understanding the uptake of diagnostics for sustainable gastrointestinal nematode control by European dairy cattle farmers: a multi-country cross-sectional study

To mitigate emerging anthelmintic resistance (AR) in cattle, sustainable gastrointestinal nematode control strategies should be adopted. A multi-centre study was set up to understand the factors affecting European dairy cattle farmers' adoption of diagnostics and to gauge for differences between regions. The data were collected through a multi-lingual survey by participating countries of the European Co-operation in Science and Technology (COST) action COMbatting Anthelmintic Resistance in ruminants (COMBAR). Four countries provided sufficient data to be included in the data analysis: Norway, Italy, Germany and Austria. Three models were estimated and validated through structural equation modelling. Norway, along with Germany and Austria (pooled dataset) showed similar trends that align with previous studies. AR risk perception had no influence on the adoption intention of diagnostics, a positive influence was found for attitude towards diagnostics and subjective norms (i.e., perceived opinion of others), and a negative influence of attitudes towards anthelminthics. Additionally, routine (i.e., perception of the current treatment) had an indirect effect on adoption intention through attitudes. Italy's data deviated from these findings, presenting a positive effect of the perceived severity of AR, and perceived behavioural control (i.e., perceived ability to perform a specific behaviour) on adoption intention of diagnostics. Finally, Norway's data set allowed for inclusion of a measurement of current behaviour in the model, identifying a direct positive effect of the perceived actual behaviour of other farmers on their own behaviour.

Drivers of Farmers’ Intention to Use the Digital Agricultural Management System: Integrating Theory of Planned Behavior and Behavioral Economics

China’s fishery industry has national and international relevance whose aquaculture production accounts for more than 60 percent of the world’s total aquaculture production. But the average amount of pesticides used per hectare in China is roughly five times of the world average. The abuse of chemical fertilizers and drugs has brought chronic, long-term, and cumulative harm to both human beings and environment. The digital agricultural management system should be adopted to reduce non-negligible environment pollution and the quality and safety risks of aquatic products. So, it is essential to understand the factors that may influence the adopting intention of this digital management approaches. The present study aimed to examine the adopting intention of farmers toward the digital agricultural management system using two theories–the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the behavioral economics–as the research framework. The population was composed of farmers in the provinces of Guangdong province in south China of whom 219 farmers were sampled with stratified random sampling technique. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data, and it was revealed that this research framework could potentially predict intention. And we observed that the two biased belief of availability bias and loss aversion bias can be the main predictive influence factors of responsible behaviors in adopting the digital agriculture management system, which highlights the importance of framing recommendations in terms of losses rather than gain may be more effective to increase farmers’ intention to adopt the digital system on their farms.

A machine learning approach using partitioning around medoids clustering and random forest classification to model groups of farms in regard to production parameters and bulk tank milk antibody status of two major internal parasites in dairy cows

Fasciola hepatica and Ostertagia ostertagi are internal parasites of cattle compromising physiology, productivity, and well-being. Parasites are complex in their effect on hosts, sometimes making it difficult to identify clear directions of associations between infection and production parameters. Therefore, unsupervised approaches not assuming a structure reduce the risk of introducing bias to the analysis. They may provide insights which cannot be obtained with conventional, supervised methodology. An unsupervised, exploratory cluster analysis approach using the k–mode algorithm and partitioning around medoids detected two distinct clusters in a cross-sectional data set of milk yield, milk fat content, milk protein content as well as F. hepatica or O. ostertagi bulk tank milk antibody status from 606 dairy farms in three structurally different dairying regions in Germany. Parasite–positive farms grouped together with their respective production parameters to form separate clusters. A random forests algorithm characterised clusters with regard to external variables. Across all study regions, co–infections with F. hepatica or O. ostertagi, respectively, farming type, and pasture access appeared to be the most important factors discriminating clusters (i.e. farms). Furthermore, farm level lameness prevalence, herd size, BCS, stage of lactation, and somatic cell count were relevant criteria distinguishing clusters. This study is among the first to apply a cluster analysis approach in this context and potentially the first to implement a k–medoids algorithm and partitioning around medoids in the veterinary field. The results demonstrated that biologically relevant patterns of parasite status and milk parameters exist between farms positive for F. hepatica or O. ostertagi, respectively, and negative farms. Moreover, the machine learning approach confirmed results of previous work and shed further light on the complex setting of associations a between parasitic diseases, milk yield and milk constituents, and management practices.

Anthelmintic resistance in ruminants: challenges and solutions

Anthelmintic resistance (AR) is a growing concern for effective parasite control in farmed ruminants globally. Combatting AR will require intensified and integrated research efforts in the development of innovative diagnostic tests to detect helminth infections and AR, sustainable anthelmintic treatment strategies and the development of complementary control approaches such as vaccination and plant-based control. It will also require a better understanding of socio-economic drivers of anthelmintic treatment decisions, in order to support a behavioural shift and develop targeted communication strategies that promote the uptake of evidence-based sustainable solutions. Here, we review the state-of-the-art in these different fields of research activity related to AR in helminths of livestock ruminants in Europe and beyond. We conclude that in the advent of new challenges and solutions emerging from continuing spread of AR and intensified research efforts, respectively, there is a strong need for transnational multi-actor initiatives. These should involve all key stakeholders to develop indicators of infection and sustainable control, set targets and promote good practices to achieve them.

Understanding Farmers' Behavior and Their Decision-Making Process in the Context of Cattle Diseases: A Review of Theories and Approaches

Understanding farmers' behavior regarding disease control is essential to successfully implement behavior change interventions that improve uptake of best practices. A literature review was conducted to identify theoretical underpinnings, analytical methodologies, and key behavioral determinants that have been described to understand farmers' behavior in disease control and prevention on cattle farms. Overall, 166 peer-reviewed manuscripts from studies conducted in 27 countries were identified. In the past decade, there were increasing reports on farmers' motivators and barriers, but no indication of application of appropriate social science methods. Furthermore, the majority (58%) of reviewed studies lacked a theoretical framework in their study design. However, when a theoretical underpinning was applied, the Theory of Planned Behavior was most commonly used (14% of total). The complexity of factors impacting farmers' behavior was illustrated when mapping all described key constructs of the reviewed papers in behavior change frameworks, such as the socioecological framework and the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation Behavior (COM-B) model. Constructs related to personal influences and relationships between farmers and veterinarians were overrepresented, whereas constructs related to other interpersonal and contextual environments were not extensively studied. There was a general lack of use of validated scales to measure constructs and empirically validated theoretical frameworks to understand and predict farmers' behavior. Furthermore, studies mainly focused on measurements of intention of stakeholder behavior rather than actual behavior, although the former is a poor predictor of the latter. Finally, there is still a lack of robust evidence of behavior change interventions or techniques that result in a successful change in farmers' behavior. We concluded that for a sustainable behavior change, studies should include wider constructs at individual, interpersonal, and contextual levels. Furthermore, the use of empirically validated constructs and theoretical frameworks is encouraged. By using coherent frameworks, researchers could link constructs to design interventions, and thereby take the first step toward theory-driven, evidence-based interventions to influence farmers' behavior for disease control.

Main determinants of the acceptance of COVID-19 control measures by the population: A first pilot survey at the University of Liege, Belgium

BACKGROUND

In order to control the COVID-19 pandemic, barrier gestures were used to reduce the transmission of the virus within a community and avoid large peaks of infections with the risk of overwhelming the healthcare systems. The acceptability of these measures is the backbone of their successful implementation. However, population compliance with these measures within a community is uncertain, even when mandatory. At the beginning of the 2020-2021 academic year, the University of Liege complemented these measures, by organizing a weekly screening by saliva testing on a voluntary basis for all its workers and students. Their compliance with the different measures was necessary for effective control program and an intensive communication plan was implemented throughout the 2020-2021 academic year for that purpose METHOD AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: An online survey was launched upon the implementation of the saliva testing in order (i) to assess the level of acceptance of the different measures by the university workers and students and (ii) to identify the factors determining their acceptance (based on the Health Belief Model) and their reported level of implementation. A total of 921 responses was received and analysed by sub-group comparison, structural equation modelling and multivariable ordinal logistic regression. Health motivation, susceptibility, severity and perception of benefits were identified as the key determinants of protective measures acceptance CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE: In order to influence positively these mental constructs and to increase the level of implementation of control measures, it is therefore recommended to raise the awareness of the university workers and students about their self and collective responsibility to protect themselves and the population at risk that can be severely affected by the disease. The non-medical faculties (i.e. the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine excluded) should be specifically targeted as their heath motivation was significantly lower. This survey demonstrates that the risk mitigation strategies against COVID-19 should integrate the importance of individual perception. The methodology developed in this survey can be generalised in space and time, in different contexts.

Gastrointestinal nematodes and Fasciola hepatica in Norwegian cattle herds: a questionnaire to investigate farmers' perceptions and control strategies

Background

Pasture management influences the prevalence and impact of the pasture parasites (PP) in cattle herds, which cause production-limiting disease worldwide. Evaluating farmer management strategies is vital when considering sustainable PP control practices. The aim of this questionnaire-based study was to describe the pasture management and control strategies regarding PP in Norwegian beef cattle (BC) and dairy cattle (DC) production systems with a focus on gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) and Fasciola hepatica.

Results

A total of 745 responses from BC (return rate 20.5%) and 1347 responses from DC farmers (30.7%) were included. The mean total pasture time for DC was 4.2 months for first-season grazers and 4.3 months for second-season grazers and cows, while the corresponding finding in BC was 5.4 months. Home pasture was used for most of the pasture period, particularly for first-season grazer dairy heifers (81%), which were also commonly grazed on the same pasture every year (79%). For most farmers it was necessary for grazing areas to be used for cattle for more than one season (77% of BC farmers and 89% of DC farmers). However, changing the pasture during the season was common in both DC (67%) and BC (70%) herds. The majority of DC farmers (60%) stated that they did not consider that they had a problem with PP. Of the remaining 40%, few respondents could specify whether their herds had a problem due to infection by GIN (11%) or liver flukes (12%). Treatment for GIN was performed by 52% of DC and 34% of BC farmers. Diagnostic faecal samples were collected upon suspicion of parasitic disease by 5% of DC and 16% of BC farmers. Veterinarians were stated as a central source of information about parasite management and treatment.

Conclusions

Potential risks for exposure to PP were identified, such as use of the same pasture every year for first-season grazers and frequent use of home pasture. The perception of problems related to PP appeared low. Regular anthelmintic treatment without concurrent use of diagnostic faecal samples seems to be common practice.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13028-021-00618-7.

Evaluating livestock farmers knowledge, beliefs, and management of arboviral diseases in Kenya: A multivariate fractional probit approach

Globally, arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) infections continue to pose substantial threats to public health and economic development, especially in developing countries. In Kenya, although arboviral diseases (ADs) are largely endemic, little is known about the factors influencing livestock farmers’ knowledge, beliefs, and management (KBM) of the three major ADs: Rift Valley fever (RVF), dengue fever and chikungunya fever. This study evaluates the drivers of livestock farmers’ KBM of ADs from a sample of 629 respondents selected using a three-stage sampling procedure in Kenya’s three hotspot counties of Baringo, Kwale, and Kilifi. A multivariate fractional probit model was used to assess the factors influencing the intensity of KBM. Only a quarter of the farmers had any knowledge of ADs while over four-fifths of them could not manage any of the three diseases. Access to information (experience and awareness), income, education, religion, and distance to a health facility considerably influenced the intensity of farmers’ KBM of ADs in Kenya. Thus, initiatives geared towards improving access to information through massive awareness campaigns are necessary to mitigate behavioral barriers in ADs management among rural communities in Kenya.

Arboviral infection in humans and animals is on the rise globally due to expansion of vector habitats. Despite the economic and social impact of diseases caused by arboviral infection such as chikungunya, dengue, and Rift Valley fever, little is known in terms of community knowledge, beliefs, and management. Evaluating community knowledge, beliefs, and management practices of arboviral diseases is important for better policy guidance and public health investment. We conducted a survey in Kenya’s three hotspot counties of Baringo, Kwale, and Kilifi to understand the factors influencing knowledge, beliefs, and management of arboviral diseases. We found low levels of knowledge and poor managerial skills of arboviral diseases that were largely driven by access to information and asset ownership. Thus, community sensitization through improved access to information is important in increasing awareness and increase the management of arboviral diseases among rural communities in Kenya and other sub-Saharan African countries.

Treatment against helminths in Norwegian sheep: a questionnaire-based survey

A questionnaire was distributed to 5487 farmers throughout Norway in order to obtain information about management practices regarding helminth infections in sheep. In addition, the farmers' perceptions of helminths and anthelmintic efficacy were investigated. Most farmers (80%) treated prophylactically against nematodes, and 24% also used prophylactic treatment against Fasciola hepatica. Overall, few farmers (11%) used parasitological analysis as a tool to assess the timing of treatment, but rather based it on other factors such as previous experience (70%). In the surveyed sheep flocks, the use of benzimidazoles was reduced from 2018 (52%) to 2019 (47%) (p < 0.01), whereas the use of macrocyclic lactones increased from 2017 (23%) to 2019 (36%) (p < 0.001). Poor anthelmintic efficacy was suspected by 10% of the farmers, and 11% reported that helminths were an increasing problem in their flocks. The majority of farmers (72%) considered their veterinarian as the most important advisor for treatment of parasites, but reported a high level of uncertainty regarding which parasites were present in their flocks, with unknown status most frequently reported for Haemonchus contortus (71.5%). This is probably related to the fact that very few farmers (15%) regularly test their animals for parasites. The present study provides up-to-date information on treatment practices for helminths in Norwegian sheep flocks.

Factors Determining the Implementation of Measures Aimed at Preventing Zoonotic Diseases in Veterinary Practices

BACKGROUND

Zoonoses prevention relies mainly on the implementation of different biosecurity measures. This study aimed to assess the level of implementation of biosecurity measures by veterinary practitioners and students and to identify the possible behaviour change determinants.

METHODS

The data was collected through a cross-sectional survey (N = 382). Statistical analyses were implemented based on the Health Belief Model to identify the possible determinant of the behaviours and the explanatory variables of the perceptions.

RESULTS

The survey showed a good level of implementation of the biosecurity measures (median of 81%). The implementation was associated with a higher perception of the zoonoses' susceptibility and the measures' benefits, and with a lower perception of the zoonoses' severity. The study also revealed that the decision to implement a measure was mainly taken on a case-by-case basis depending on the perceived risk of exposure related to a specific context or intervention.

CONCLUSION

The main determining factors identified for the implementation of biosecurity measures (BSMs) were the risk susceptibility and the benefits of the biosecurity measures, which could be influenced by evidence-based communication. The methodology developed can be applied regularly and in other countries to better capture these changes in perceptions over time.

Beekeepers perception of risks affecting colony loss: A pilot survey

Understanding amateur beekeepers' perception of risks affecting bee health and mortality is essential to analyse the reasons for adopting or rejecting good management practices. A perception survey on how beekeepers perceive and manage factors related to climate change, Varroa infestation, management practices, and pesticide exposure was designed and launched online. This unpreceded sociological survey involved 355 beekeepers spread all over Belgium. A two-sample t test with unequal variances comparing beekeepers with colony loss rates below or exceeding the acceptable level, that is <10% and ≥10%, indicates that beekeepers (N = 213) with colony loss rates <10% generally have greater average levels of perceived risks and the benefits of action that lead to increased motivation to act in better ways. The results of this survey highlight the importance of looking beyond socio-economic determinants in any risk mitigation strategy associated with bee mortality when dealing with amateur beekeepers.

Increasing importance of anthelmintic resistance in European livestock: creation and meta-analysis of an open database

Helminth infections are ubiquitous in grazing ruminant production systems, and are responsible for significant costs and production losses. Anthelmintic Resistance (AR) in parasites is now widespread throughout Europe, although there are still gaps in our knowledge in some regions and countries. AR is a major threat to the sustainability of modern ruminant livestock production, resulting in reduced productivity, compromised animal health and welfare, and increased greenhouse gas emissions through increased parasitism and farm inputs. A better understanding of the extent of AR in Europe is needed to develop and advocate more sustainable parasite control approaches. A database of European published and unpublished AR research on gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) and liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) was collated by members of the European COST Action "COMBAR" (Combatting Anthelmintic Resistance in Ruminants), and combined with data from a previous systematic review of AR in GIN. A total of 197 publications on AR in GIN were available for analysis, representing 535 studies in 22 countries and spanning the period 1980-2020. Reports of AR were present throughout the European continent and some reports indicated high within-country prevalence. Heuristic sample size-weighted estimates of European AR prevalence over the whole study period, stratified by anthelmintic class, varied between 0 and 48%. Estimated regional (country) prevalence was highly heterogeneous, ranging between 0% and 100% depending on livestock sector and anthelmintic class, and generally increased with increasing research effort in a country. In the few countries with adequate longitudinal data, there was a tendency towards increasing AR over time for all anthelmintic classes in GIN: aggregated results in sheep and goats since 2010 reveal an average prevalence of resistance to benzimidazoles (BZ) of 86%, macrocyclic lactones except moxidectin (ML) 52%, levamisole (LEV) 48%, and moxidectin (MOX) 21%. All major GIN genera survived treatment in various studies. In cattle, prevalence of AR varied between anthelmintic classes from 0-100% (BZ and ML), 0-17% (LEV) and 0-73% (MOX), and both Cooperia and Ostertagia survived treatment. Suspected AR in F. hepatica was reported in 21 studies spanning 6 countries. For GIN and particularly F. hepatica, there was a bias towards preferential sampling of individual farms with suspected AR, and research effort was biased towards Western Europe and particularly the United Kingdom. Ongoing capture of future results in the live database, efforts to avoid bias in farm recruitment, more accurate tests for AR, and stronger appreciation of the importance of AR among the agricultural industry and policy makers, will support more sophisticated analyses of factors contributing to AR and effective strategies to slow its spread.

Cattle farmers' perception of biosecurity measures and the main predictors of behaviour change: The first European-wide pilot study

The importance of biosecurity as a strategy to prevent and control infectious diseases has increased substantially over the last few decades. Several studies have reported a low implementation level of biosecurity measures (BSM), particularly in cattle farms. In addition, a recent study demonstrated that cattle farmers are well aware of the recommended BSM and recognize them as more effective (in terms of time and costs) than treatment for disease. Therefore, other factors must be considered when it comes to understanding the decision-making process followed by a farmer regarding the adoption of BSM. This study analysed the possible influence of five mental constructs described in the health belief model (HBM) on the adoption of BSM and assessed the possible association of these constructs with different demographic and socio-psychological factors. Through an online survey, 988 questionnaires were completed by cattle farmers originating from Belgium, France, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands. The study revealed that the actual implementation of the BSM seems to be significantly influenced by the farmers' perception of the measures' benefits and the perception of health responsibility. Both constructs are influenced by the farmers' personality in terms of risk aversion and biosecurity knowledge. It was also found that organic farmers had a significantly lower perception of the BSM benefits and of their responsibility towards animal, public and environmental health when compared with other types of farmer. Organic farmers in this study seemed less likely to implement biosecurity measures. To increase the adoption of BSM by cattle farmers, it is therefore important to emphasise the actual evidence-based benefits of the measures and to investigate further how to strengthen cattle farmers' sense of responsibility towards animal, public and environmental health.

A Qualitative Market Analysis Applied to Mini-FLOTAC and Fill-FLOTAC for Diagnosis of Helminth Infections in Ruminants

Helminth infections, mainly by gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), are one of the main concerns for animal health, welfare and productivity in grazing ruminant livestock worldwide. The use of a sensitive, precise, accurate, low-cost, and easy-to-perform copromicroscopic technique is of pivotal importance to perform reliable fecal egg count (FEC) and fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), in order to determine the need of anthelmintic treatment, but also anthelmintic efficacy or resistance. This approach is fundamental to a correct and efficient control of GIN. Unfortunately, in worldwide ruminant farm practice, repeated anthelmintic treatments are carried out, without prior diagnosis of infection, contributing to the spread of Anthelmintic Resistance (AR). Tackling this phenomenon, improving mainly the GIN diagnosis and AR status in farm animals, is a priority of the European COST Action “COMBAR—COMBatting Anthelmintic Resistance in Ruminants” and of the STAR-IDAZ International Research Consortium on Animal Health. One of the specific objectives of the COMBAR Working Group 1 (WG1) is to conduct an European market analysis of new diagnostics and develop a business plan for commercial test introduction, leveraging technical know-how of participants. Since the Mini-FLOTAC in combination with the Fill-FLOTAC may be considered a good candidate for a standardized FEC and FECRT in the laboratory, as well as directly in the field, the aim of this study was to conduct SWOT (Strength—Weaknesses—Opportunities—Threats) and PESTEL (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal) analyses of these tools in 20 European countries involved in the COMBAR WG1, in order to identify the opportunities, barriers, and challenges that might affect the Mini-FLOTAC and Fill-FLOTAC commercialization in Europe.

Biology and Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Cattle

This article reviews the basics of gastrointestinal nematode biology and pathophysiology in cattle and describes how gastrointestinal nematode epidemiology is driven by environmental, host, and farm economic determinants. Adverse effects from gastrointestinal nematodes on their hosts are caused by tissue damage, nutrient absorption, immunopathologic effects, and reduced food intake induced by hormonal changes. Weather and microenvironmental factors influence the development and survival of free-living parasitic stages. A holistic control approach entails the consideration of environmental, immunologic, and socioeconomic aspects of nematode epidemiology and is key for the development and communication of sustainable control strategies.

Implication of the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) in sheep for better use of available drugs

Abstract The aim here is to present data on the efficacy of anthelmintics in sheep flocks in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and to discuss the interpretation of the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) for each nematode genus. Fecal eggs counts and pre- and post-treatment coprocultures were performed, the former to evaluate the efficacy of and the latter to determine the overall parasite prevalence. An additional efficacy test was performed at Farm # 1 a year after the initial test. Severe anthelmintic resistance was found for the flocks, with no FECRT sensitivity at any of the 22 farms evaluated. However, an analysis of the infective larvae showed that some drugs were effective against certain parasitic genera; i.e., levamisole was more effective against Haemonchus spp. and moxidectin against Trichostrongylus spp. In the additional FECRT performed at Farm # 1, moxidectin and nitroxynil were ineffective separately, but when applied in combination they were highly effective due to their efficacy against Haemonchus (nitroxynil) and Trichostrongylus (moxidectin), respectively. The use of the FECRT targeting the parasitic nematode species prevalent on farms may make it possible to choose more effective anthelmintics.

Towards a biased mindset: An extended Theory of Planned Behaviour framework to predict farmers' intention to adopt a sustainable mange control approach

Resistance against macrocyclic lactones is emerging in Psoroptes ovis mites, the cause of psoroptic mange in sheep and cattle. Therefore, sustainable mange control approaches should be implemented to prevent or slow down resistance. To ensure a proper implementation of such approaches, it is crucial to understand the factors that may impede or facilitate adoption of these practices among farmers. A conceptual model that combines insights from the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB, Ajzen, 1991) - a theory that predicts human behaviour -, with insights from behavioural economics (Camerer, 2004; Samson, 2016) - a theory that assumes that behavioural biases or reasoning errors are pervasive in decision-making -, was developed to predict farmers' adoption intention. In particular, this paper examines how behavioural economics can influence farmers' beliefs related to sustainable mange control and through which pathways these biased beliefs can predict adoption intention. A cross-sectional survey study amongst 174 Belgian Blue cattle farmers has been conducted and Structural Equation Modelling was used for analyses. In particular, the model shows that farmers' positive attitudes towards a sustainable mange control method (attitude) and their perceptions of how others evaluate the sustainable control methods (subjective norms) more strongly predict adoption intention than perceived behavioural control. Additionally, the model shows that adoption intention is explained by the bandwagon bias -the belief that other farmers have a positive opinion about the control method-, and availability bias - farmers who have the belief that mange occurs often on their farm - through the determinants of TPB. Although this bandwagon bias influences farmers adoption intention, the rather low presence of availability bias might explain why adoption intention of a sustainable mange control method is limited. Next, retaining to the default treatment (default bias) influences farmers' belief that they are capable of implementing control methods on their farm (perceived behavioural control), while the belief that implementing a control method is perceived as a cost for their farm rather than being beneficial (loss aversion bias) negatively influences attitude and perceived behavioural control. We further discuss important implications that can incite farmers' adoption intention.

A retrospective cohort study comparing dairy calf treatment decisions by farm personnel with veterinary observations of clinical signs

Antimicrobials are frequently administered to calves with diarrhea, despite evidence suggesting questionable efficacy. Even if efficacious, providing the appropriate therapy to an animal requires accurate disease detection. The objective of this study was to use previously collected data and compare clinical scoring by a veterinarian to treatment decisions by on-farm personnel. Data describing daily clinical scores and farm treatments were previously collected from 4 farms for calves from birth to age 28 d. In this data set, a total of 460 calves were enrolled. Daily observations and clinical assessments were made on each farm by the same veterinarian, for a total of 12,101 calf observation days. Farm personnel made all treatment decisions based on their own observations, and these treatments were recorded by study personnel. Overall, the cumulative incidence of a calf exhibiting at least one abnormal clinical sign over the 28-d observation period was 0.93, with cumulative incidences of 0.85 and 0.33 for diarrhea and dehydration, respectively. The cumulative incidence of any treatment (including antibiotics and electrolytes) was 0.85, although the majority of treatments used an antimicrobial. The farm-specific probabilities that a calf with clinical signs of dehydration or diarrhea, respectively, received fluid or electrolyte therapy ranged from 0.08 to 0.27 and 0.03 to 0.12. These probabilities were greater for the day a clinical sign was first observed. The farm-specific probabilities that a calf with clinical signs of diarrhea received an antimicrobial was 0.23 to 0.65, and the probability that a calf exhibiting clinical signs of respiratory disease received an antimicrobial was 0.33 to 0.76. The first observation of diarrhea had similar probabilities to those for all observations of diarrhea. There was greater probability of treatment for calves with their first observed abnormal respiratory signs. Probabilities that treatment with antimicrobials, or fluids or electrolytes, was associated with an abnormal clinical sign were low-that is, calves received treatments in the absence of any abnormal clinical signs. This study illustrates incongruity between treatment decisions by calf treaters (the designated personnel on each farm responsible for calf health assessment and treatment decisions) and those of an observer using a clinical scoring system to identify calves with abnormal clinical signs. These findings indicate opportunities and the need for dairy farmers and advisors to evaluate calf treatment protocols, reasons for treatment, and training programs for calf health and disease detection, as well as to develop monitoring programs for treatment protocol compliance and health outcomes following therapy.

Invited review: Examining farmers' personalities and attitudes as possible risk factors for dairy cattle health, welfare, productivity, and farm management: A systematic scoping review

We aimed to determine how research regarding farmers' personalities and attitudes as risk factors is reported (methodological approaches to assessing, extracting, and processing data and analyzing risk factors) and to explore evidence for the effect of farmers' attitudes and personalities on dairy cattle health, welfare, productivity, and management. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of studies on personality and attitude as risk factors for dairy cattle health, welfare, productivity, and farm management. Database searches captured 1,144 records, and 38 were finally included in the review. Thirty-three manuscripts assessed farmers' attitudes, 1 assessed their personalities, and 4 assessed both as risk factors. These potential risk factors were checked for relationships with more than 50 different outcome variables regarding farm management (17 manuscripts), animal health (13 manuscripts), animal productivity (11 manuscripts), and animal welfare (4 manuscripts). The approaches to assessing risk factors and processing and interpreting data varied greatly; thus, drawing conclusions regarding the effects of attitude and personality as risk factors is impeded because manuscripts are difficult to compare. Our findings highlight the need for harmonization of attitudes and personality assessments in future research. Furthermore, researchers should carefully consider which depth of detail to apply when planning and evaluating related research. Nevertheless, results highlight the importance of the effect of personality and attitude on outcomes. Farmers' personality and attitudes are associated with dairy cattle health, welfare, productivity, and management. In general, attitudes indicating higher degrees of technical knowledge, affection with problems, perceived responsibility, perception of control of a situation, a better human-animal relationship, or a positive evaluation of the benefits of management decisions tended to affect outcomes in a beneficial way. "Agreeableness" and "conscientiousness" were shown to promote better farm performance, whereas "neuroticism" had a negative effect. Therefore, further research on attitude and personality and their consideration by professionals and decision-makers within the dairy sector and politics is strongly recommended. This might provide the chance to better understand the needs of dairy farmers and therefore develop tailored advice and support strategies to improve both satisfactory and constructive cooperation.

Factors Influencing Upcycling for UK Makers

Changing consumer behaviour can reduce environmental impacts. Upcycling is one of the understudied yet promising, environmentally sustainable behaviours that has the potential to contribute to the reduction of waste and greenhouse gas emissions. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by exploring factors influencing upcycling for UK makers. The study employed a survey based on Triandis’s theory of interpersonal behaviour and Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour. The survey results revealed key determinants of upcycling as attitude, intention, and subjective norm, and demographic characteristics of people who are more likely to upcycle frequently as females aged 30+ working in art and design. The paper further discusses the theoretical and practical implications of the study.

100 Questions in Livestock Helminthology Research

An elicitation exercise was conducted to collect and identify pressing questions concerning the study of helminths in livestock, to help guide research priorities. Questions were invited from the research community in an inclusive way. Of 385 questions submitted, 100 were chosen by online vote, with priority given to open questions in important areas that are specific enough to permit investigation within a focused project or programme of research. The final list of questions was divided into ten themes. We present the questions and set them briefly in the context of the current state of knowledge. Although subjective, the results provide a snapshot of current concerns and perceived priorities in the field of livestock helminthology, and we hope that they will stimulate ongoing or new research efforts.

Farmer Behavior and Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Ruminant Livestock-Uptake of Sustainable Control Approaches

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections are a common constraint in pasture-based herds and cause a decrease in animal health, productivity and farm profitability. Current control practices to prevent production losses of GIN infections in livestock depend largely on the use of anthelmintic drugs. However, due to the continued use of these drugs over more than three decades, the industry is now increasingly confronted with nematode populations resistant to the available anthelmintics. This emerging anthelmintic resistance (AR) in cattle nematodes emphasizes the need for a change toward more sustainable control approaches that limit, prevent or reverse the development of AR. The uptake of diagnostic methods for sustainable control could enable more informed treatment decisions and reduce excessive anthelmintic use. Different diagnostic and targeted or targeted selective anthelmintic control approaches that slow down the selection pressure for anthelmintic resistance have been developed and evaluated recently. Now it is time to transform these insights into guidelines for sustainable control and communicate them across the farmer community. This article reviews the current uptake of such sustainable practices with a focus on farmer's socio-psychological factors affecting this uptake. We investigate communication as a possible tool to change current behavior and successfully implement more sustainable anthelmintic treatment strategies.

A survey of experiences of UK cattle and sheep farmers with anthelmintic prescribers; Are best practice principles being deployed at farm level?

Helminths are common pathogens of ruminants. These are controlled by anthelmintics; however, resistance is a major issue. More sustainable practices need to be deployed to protect anthelmintic efficacy. There is no published information on how farmer/prescriber interactions at anthelmintic purchase shape application of best practice on-farm. To determine experiences of UK ruminant farmers as they relate to anthelmintic purchasing/provision of best practice advice at the point-of-sale, an online survey was distributed. This explored farmer experiences in purchasing anthelmintics from the three UK animal medicines' prescribers (veterinarians, Suitably Qualified Persons [SQPs], veterinary pharmacists) and investigated farmer attitudes to anthelmintic use and resistance. First, farmers were grouped according to whom they purchased anthelmintics from, including those that purchased from > 1 prescriber type. The results indicated there was no significant difference between the type of prescriber from whom farmers bought anthelmintics and route (face-to-face, telephone, online) through which they purchased them. Farmers who bought from veterinarians were more likely to view prescriber knowledge as more important. When asked who influenced purchase, there was a significant difference; farmers tended to be most influenced by the prescriber they purchased from. Those who bought from various types of prescriber were most influenced by veterinarians. Farmers who purchased from veterinarians were significantly more likely to state their seller discussed/recommended faecal egg count (FEC) testing and management strategies to reduce anthelmintic use than those who purchased from SQPs or from > 1 prescribing channel. When grouped according to purchase route, farmers that bought through face-to-face interactions were significantly more likely to state they valued prescriber knowledge of parasites/anthelmintics than farmers that purchased via the telephone or internet. Farmers that purchased online were significantly less likely to consider prescriber advice. Analysis was then applied based on the type of livestock farmed. Generally, sheep farmers undertook FEC testing more than cattle farmers. Relatively few farmers stated they conducted anthelmintic sensitivity testing, with the majority of cattle farmers having not tested at all. This was despite a high level of concern for anthelmintic resistance in all types of farmers. 'Cattle only' farmers viewed convenience factors as more important than those that managed sheep or sheep/cattle. The results suggest that UK farmers that bought anthelmintics from veterinarians were more likely to be exposed to diagnostic-led control advice. Gaps in advice provision, particularly in relation to efficacy testing, were identified in all farmer groups.

Control of helminth ruminant infections by 2030

Helminth infections have large negative impacts on production efficiency in ruminant farming systems worldwide, and their effective management is essential if livestock production is to increase to meet future human needs for dietary protein. The control of helminths relies heavily on routine use of chemotherapeutics, but this approach is unsustainable as resistance to anthelmintic drugs is widespread and increasing. At the same time, infection patterns are being altered by changes in climate, land-use and farming practices. Future farms will need to adopt more efficient, robust and sustainable control methods, integrating ongoing scientific advances. Here, we present a vision of helminth control in farmed ruminants by 2030, bringing to bear progress in: (1) diagnostic tools, (2) innovative control approaches based on vaccines and selective breeding, (3) anthelmintics, by sustainable use of existing products and potentially new compounds, and (4) rational integration of future control practices. In this review, we identify the technical advances that we believe will place new tools in the hands of animal health decision makers in 2030, to enhance their options for control and allow them to achieve a more integrated and sustainable approach to helminth control in support of animal welfare and production.

Mind the gaps in research on the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of farmed ruminants and pigs

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematode control has an important role to play in increasing livestock production from a limited natural resource base and to improve animal health and welfare. In this synthetic review, we identify key research priorities for GI nematode control in farmed ruminants and pigs, to support the development of roadmaps and strategic research agendas by governments, industry and policymakers. These priorities were derived from the DISCONTOOLS gap analysis for nematodes and follow-up discussions within the recently formed Livestock Helminth Research Alliance (LiHRA). In the face of ongoing spread of anthelmintic resistance (AR), we are increasingly faced with a failure of existing control methods against GI nematodes. Effective vaccines against GI nematodes are generally not available, and anthelmintic treatment will therefore remain a cornerstone for their effective control. At the same time, consumers and producers are increasingly concerned with environmental issues associated with chemical parasite control. To address current challenges in GI nematode control, it is crucial to deepen our insights into diverse aspects of epidemiology, AR, host immune mechanisms and the socio-psychological aspects of nematode control. This will enhance the development, and subsequent uptake, of the new diagnostics, vaccines, pharma-/nutraceuticals, control methods and decision support tools required to respond to the spread of AR and the shifting epidemiology of GI nematodes in response to climatic, land-use and farm husbandry changes. More emphasis needs to be placed on the upfront evaluation of the economic value of these innovations as well as the socio-psychological aspects to prioritize research and facilitate uptake of innovations in practice. Finally, targeted regulatory guidance is needed to create an innovation-supportive environment for industries and to accelerate the access to market of new control tools.

Worm Control in Livestock: Bringing Science to the Field

Parasitic roundworm infections are ubiquitous in grazing livestock. Chemical control through the frequent 'blanket' administration of anthelmintics (wormers) has been, and remains, the cornerstone in controlling these infections, but this practice is unsustainable. Alternative strategies are available but, even with the plethora of best practice advice available, have yet to be integrated into routine farming practice. This is probably due to a range of factors, including contradictory advice from different sources, changes to advice following increased scientific understanding, and top-down knowledge exchange patterns. In this article, we discuss the worm control options available, the translation of new best practice advice from science bench to field, and ideas for future work and directions.

Social engineering of societal knowledge in livestock science: Can we be more empathetic?

Questions are raised in effective utilization of farmer’s wisdom by communities in their farming. Planners support to livelihood emphasize mostly of inputs from outside and not setting up sustainable goals. Formal institutions and planners of program are finding constraints and sceptical in wider dissemination of indigenous knowledge research system (IKRS). This is in spite of evidence that considerable number of farmer’s in livestock sector depends on IKRS. In this context, it is pertinent to showcase dissemination potential of these knowledge system(s) in larger geographical areas. The review illustrates different challenges encountered while control of livestock ailments like ectoparasite infestation through IKRS. Several times, it was opinioned to provide or share IKRS to thwart ailments in a specific region. This is interesting as it was narrated how formal system is unable to recognize farmer’s problem and challenges in integrating these sustainable practices. It has to be noted that disseminating activities seldom takes into account the experimental potential of farmers. This review paper articulates various evidences generated in enhancing diffusion thereby dissemination of IKRS. The nature of support extended by IKRS in entrepreneurial activity of smallholder farming units did not get adequate recognition. There needs to be minimum standard protocol in deriving benefit from such low-cost alternative technologies. This will enrich incremental innovation activities as per location specific need and provide scope for wider dissemination.

Invited review: Determinants of farmers' adoption of management-based strategies for infectious disease prevention and control

The prevention and control of endemic pathogens within and between farms often depends on the adoption of best management practices. However, farmers regularly do not adopt recommended measures or do not enroll in voluntary disease control programs. This indicates that a more comprehensive understanding of the influences and extension tools that affect farmers' management decisions is necessary. Based on a review of relevant published literature, we developed recommendations to support policy-makers, industry representatives, researchers, veterinarians, and other stakeholders when motivating farmers to adopt best management practices, and to facilitate the development and implementation of voluntary prevention and control programs for livestock diseases. Farmers will make management decisions based on their unique circumstances, agricultural contexts, beliefs, and goals. Providing them with rational but universal arguments might not always be sufficient to motivate on-farm change. Implementation of recommended management practices is more likely if farmers acknowledge the existence of a problem and their responsibility to take action. The perceived feasibility and effectiveness of the recommended management strategy and sufficient technical knowledge further increase the likelihood of adequate adoption. Farmers will also weigh the expected advantages of a proposed change against the expected disadvantages, and these considerations often include internal drivers such as pride or the desire to conform with perceived standards. Extension tools and farmers' social referents (e.g., veterinarians, peers) not only provide technical information but also influence these standards. Whereas mass media have the potential to deliver information to a broad audience, more personal approaches such as participatory group learning or individual communication with farm advisors can enable the tailoring of recommendations to farmers' situations. Approaches that appeal to farmers' internal motivators or that unconsciously elicit the desired behavior will increase the success of the intervention. Collaboration among stakeholders, assisted by social scientists and communication specialists, is necessary to provide a context that facilitates on-farm change and transfers consistent messages across extension tools in the most effective way.

A quantitative analysis of attitudes and behaviours concerning sustainable parasite control practices from Scottish sheep farmers

Nematode control in sheep, by strategic use of anthelmintics, is threatened by the emergence of roundworms populations that are resistant to one or more of the currently available drugs. In response to growing concerns of Anthelmintic Resistance (AR) development in UK sheep flocks, the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) initiative was set up in 2003 in order to promote practical guidelines for producers and advisors. To facilitate the uptake of 'best practice' approaches to nematode management, a comprehensive understanding of the various factors influencing sheep farmers' adoption of the SCOPS principles is required. A telephone survey of 400 Scottish sheep farmers was conducted to elicit attitudes regarding roundworm control, AR and 'best practice' recommendations. A quantitative statistical analysis approach using structural equation modelling was chosen to test the relationships between both observed and latent variables relating to general roundworm control beliefs. A model framework was developed to test the influence of socio-psychological factors on the uptake of sustainable (SCOPS) and known unsustainable (AR selective) roundworm control practices. The analysis identified eleven factors with significant influences on the adoption of SCOPS recommended practices and AR selective practices. Two models established a good fit with the observed data with each model explaining 54% and 47% of the variance in SCOPS and AR selective behaviours, respectively. The key influences toward the adoption of best practice parasite management, as well as demonstrating negative influences on employing AR selective practices were farmer's base line understanding about roundworm control and confirmation about lack of anthelmintic efficacy in a flock. The findings suggest that improving farmers' acceptance and uptake of diagnostic testing and improving underlying knowledge and awareness about nematode control may influence adoption of best practice behaviour.

Challenges and priorities for modelling livestock health and pathogens in the context of climate change

Climate change has the potential to impair livestock health, with consequences for animal welfare, productivity, greenhouse gas emissions, and human livelihoods and health. Modelling has an important role in assessing the impacts of climate change on livestock systems and the efficacy of potential adaptation strategies, to support decision making for more efficient, resilient and sustainable production. However, a coherent set of challenges and research priorities for modelling livestock health and pathogens under climate change has not previously been available. To identify such challenges and priorities, researchers from across Europe were engaged in a horizon-scanning study, involving workshop and questionnaire based exercises and focussed literature reviews. Eighteen key challenges were identified and grouped into six categories based on subject-specific and capacity building requirements. Across a number of challenges, the need for inventories relating model types to different applications (e.g. the pathogen species, region, scale of focus and purpose to which they can be applied) was identified, in order to identify gaps in capability in relation to the impacts of climate change on animal health. The need for collaboration and learning across disciplines was highlighted in several challenges, e.g. to better understand and model complex ecological interactions between pathogens, vectors, wildlife hosts and livestock in the context of climate change. Collaboration between socio-economic and biophysical disciplines was seen as important for better engagement with stakeholders and for improved modelling of the costs and benefits of poor livestock health. The need for more comprehensive validation of empirical relationships, for harmonising terminology and measurements, and for building capacity for under-researched nations, systems and health problems indicated the importance of joined up approaches across nations. The challenges and priorities identified can help focus the development of modelling capacity and future research structures in this vital field. Well-funded networks capable of managing the long-term development of shared resources are required in order to create a cohesive modelling community equipped to tackle the complex challenges of climate change.

Decision making on helminths in cattle: diagnostics, economics and human behaviour

Helminth infections of cattle affect productivity in all classes of stock, and are amongst the most important production-limiting diseases of grazing ruminants. Over the last decade, there has been a shift in focus in the diagnosis of these infections from merely detecting presence/absence of infection towards detecting its impact on production. This has been facilitated by studies observing consistent negative correlations between helminth diagnostic test results and measures of productivity. Veterinarians are increasingly challenged to consider the economic aspects of their work, and the use of these tests should now be integrated in economic evaluation frameworks for improved decision making. In this paper, we review recent insights in the farm-specific economic impact of helminth infections on dairy cattle farms as well as in farmer attitudes and behaviour regarding helminth control. Combining better economic impact assessments of helminth infections together with a deeper understanding of the non-economic factors that drive a farmer’s animal health decisions should result in more effective control strategies and increased farmer satisfaction.