Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of local land services staff regarding Japanese encephalitis virus: A one health perspective.

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease with a transmission cycle, involving Culex spp. mosquitoes, pigs, and waterbirds, highlighting the importance of a One Health approach to its prevention and control. This mixed-methods study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices among Local Land Services (LLS) staff in rural New South Wales (NSW), occupationally at considerable risk of JEV exposure, to inform integrated prevention strategies. An online questionnaire (n = 46) and a focus group (n = 20) explored their awareness, vaccination status, and personal protective practices (PPP) adopted. While most participants recognised JEV as a zoonotic disease, misconceptions about transmission and inconsistent use of repellents were commonplace. Only 18% were vaccinated, but vaccination rates were higher when the workplace facilitated access (OR = 12.4, 95%CI 1.28-581.7). Qualitative findings revealed that seasonal cues influenced PPP, that targeted practical communication was preferred, and that cross-sector collaboration between veterinary, agricultural, and public health agencies was ad hoc yet valued. Findings underscore the need for coordinated, workplace-based prevention programs embedded within Work Health and Safety frameworks, supported by consistent cross-sector collaboration and context-specific communication. Integrating efforts within a One Health framework is critical to strengthening preparedness against emerging zoonotic threats in agricultural settings.