BTV-3 vaccination decisions among German livestock farmers: a KAP survey

Following the emergence of Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in Germany in late 2023, thousands of outbreaks were reported nationwide during 2024, posing a substantial threat to livestock farming. In response, preventive vaccination was recommended and implemented on a voluntary basis. This study examined German livestock farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to BTV-3 vaccination. An online questionnaire was distributed nationwide in November and December 2024 to assess farmers' willingness to vaccinate and to identify factors influencing vaccination decisions. A total of 1965 livestock holders participated. More than half reported fully vaccinating all their animals against BTV-3 in 2024. Vaccination uptake was significantly higher in conventional compared to organic farms and among small ruminant farms compared to cattle farms. In a logistic regression model, higher knowledge levels regarding BTV and vaccination were positively associated with vaccination uptake. Geographic variation was also observed, with lower vaccination uptake in southern regions of Germany. Participants most frequently reported preventing mortality and clinical disease, as well as avoiding economic losses, as reasons for vaccinating their animals. Around one third of participants did not vaccinate their animals in 2024, with most commonly reported barriers being concerns about vaccine side effects and economic considerations. Perceived lack of information about safety and effectiveness of vaccines may have contributed additionally to hesitancy among farmers. Financial incentives, recommendations from veterinarians, and the possibility of combined vaccination against several serotypes were identified as key factors that could encourage future vaccination. These findings indicate that knowledge gaps and economic constraints hindered widespread BTV-3 vaccination among livestock farmers in Germany in 2024. Targeted information campaigns, financial incentives, and strengthened veterinary guidance are essential to improve vaccination acceptance and enhance future bluetongue control efforts.