Knowledge Attitude And Practices On Dengue Prevention And Control: Inputs To An Integrated Program

Authors

  • Angelica S. Tuan, Sarah B. Delorino

Abstract

This study focused      on determining the knowledge, attitude and practices on dengue prevention and control in Northern Samar, Philippines.  The study utilized a mixed method employing quantitative and qualitative approach in research to gather multiple perspective regarding dengue prevention and control.  A total of seven hundred seventy-one (771) ages 10 to 65 years old consisted the study’s population.  Findings of the study revealed that most of the respondents belonged to adult groups; in terms of sex, majority were married females, non-employed housewives, and some were students. For those who had jobs, majority belonged to hired or paid laborers. They had the lowest level of educational attainment (elementary level or elementary graduate only) which was also reflective of their income and low socio-economic status with an average family monthly income below the poverty threshold level declared by Philippine Statistics Office. The results revealed that the most apparent of which was the fact that this study utilized a cross sectional survey method that assessed only the situation at one point in time.  As this study utilized an interview-based questionnaire, it was possible that the participants may have provided socially desirable responses regarding knowledge and practices which were in conflict with the results during the focus discussion.  It was not possible for the researcher to directly observe the practices of the participants for a longer period of time in order to validate the data in the survey due to short duration of the study. Nevertheless, there was cross checking made in the responses. It was verified and validated in the focus group discussion conducted. In conclusion, participants had poor knowledge on dengue prevention and control. Their agreement on the belief that dengue poses public health hazard was not demonstrated in their action and practices for prevention and control.  Despite of the limitations of the findings of this study, it highlighted the need for further information, education, and communication programs in the community, hence, an integrated health education for dengue prevention and control was conceptualized.

Published

2021-01-25

Issue

Section

Articles