Examining perceived risk to bovine tuberculosis through factorial survey to inform policymaking for zoonotic diseases control and surveillance.

Prevention and control of infectious diseases in livestock is dependent upon perceived risk and susceptibility, including the prevention of between-herd transmission of bovine tuberculosis through introductions of cattle to susceptible herds. To examine how perceived risk and susceptibility can help to inform policymaking in disease surveillance and control, we used factorial surveys to profile risk perceptions of cattle producers. We found that government indemnity and slaughtering policy did not impact the cattle purchasing behavior of producers who responded to our survey, but rather through other attributes such as the reliability or reputation of the seller. In addition, we identified significant production type and gender differences in purchasing behavior and risk perception. Finally, clustering analysis revealed a group of high-risk respondents characterized as experienced and very dedicated owners of established medium to large size herds. With the increasing availability of business data, assessment of producer's behavior, personalities and attitudes allows policymakers to understand the needs of cattle producers and develop tailored programs that will improve producer cooperation with government agencies.