Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding dengue virus infection among inhabitants of Aceh, Indonesia: a cross-sectional study

A mixed method evaluation of knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue fever among Lalitpur Metropolitan City residents: a cross-sectional investigation

BACKGROUND

Dengue poses a significant global public health challenge, including in Nepal. Understanding community's knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors concerning dengue fever is imperative to developing effective prevention and control strategies. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices related to dengue fever among residents of Lalitpur Metropolitan City.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional household study was conducted using a mixed-method approach, which included quantitatively studying 636 individuals and conducting 20 qualitative interviews. The data was collected between April 2023 and June 2023. The multistage cluster sampling method was applied for household selection during the quantitative study and a purposive judgmental sampling method was used to identify participants for the qualitative interviews. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire for the quantitative study and an interview guide for the qualitative study. Quantitative data were analysed using logistic regression in STATA version 13, and thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. The findings were validated through triangulation of results from both the qualitative and quantitative study.

RESULTS

Regarding knowledge, 64.94% (n = 413/636) reported being informed about dengue fever. In terms of attitude, a substantial majority, 91.51% (n = 582/636), expressed a positive attitudes toward dengue fever, indicating a favorable perception and knowledge of its significance. Concerning practice, 49.84% (n = 317/636) of respondents reported actively engaging in dengue fever prevention measures. The variables gender, previous history of dengue fever and residency were the determinants of dengue fever knowledge. Additionally, gender, residency, and attitude were predictors of preventive practices concerning dengue fever.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed that while the community demonstrated good knowledge of dengue fever and positive attitudes toward prevention, their preventive practices were inconsistent, indicating a gap between knowledge and action. A positive attitude was linked to better adherence to preventive measures. To address this gap, it is crucial to promote a positive attitude toward dengue prevention through initiatives like education efforts and social mobilization programs. Implementing Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) programs focused on dengue prevention and control measures can help bridge this knowledge-action gap.

The willingness of healthcare workers to be vaccinated against monkeypox and their knowledge about monkeypox: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Vaccination is an important method to address the monkeypox epidemic. We aimed to analyze the knowledge of healthcare workers (HCWs) about human monkeypox and their attitudes toward vaccination.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Embase and Web of Science for articles and performed a meta-analysis using Stata 14.0 with a random-effects model. This study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results

A total of 34 studies with 43,226 HCWs were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that 54 % (95 % CI: 0.39-0.69) of the HCWs were willing to be vaccinated against monkeypox, and only 40 % (95 % CI: 0.29-0.50) of the HCWs had good knowledge of monkeypox. By analyzing the vaccination history of HCWs, we found that history of smallpox vaccination did not significantly affect the willingness of HCWs to receive another vaccination (OR = 0.53, 95 % CI: 0.23-1.26), whereas HCWs who had been vaccinated with the influenza vaccine (OR = 2.80, 95 % CI: 1.29-6.11) or COVID-19 vaccine (OR = 3.10, 95 % CI: 2.00-4.81) showed greater willingness to receive the monkeypox vaccine. In terms of income, low-income HCWs were less willing to be vaccinated against monkeypox (OR = 0.69, 95 % CI: 0.54-0.89), whereas middle-income HCWs were more willing (OR = 1.45, 95 % CI: 1.04-2.02). Notably, although HCWs with education related to monkeypox had better knowledge of monkeypox than HCWs without education related to monkeypox, the difference was not statistically significant (OR = 1.83, 95 % CI: 0.80-4.18).

Conclusions

Publicity and education on monkeypox should be strengthened so that more people, especially HCWs, can have a good understanding of monkeypox and be willing to be vaccinated.

Investigating public understanding and actions regarding Aedes mosquitoes and dengue prevention across altitudinal range in central Nepal

BACKGROUNDS OBJECTIVES

Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is a significant public health concern in Nepal. An extensive Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) survey related to Aedes mosquitoes and prevention of dengue was conducted along the route from Matihani (62 m above sea level) to Kalinchok (3840 m asl) in central Nepal. This research examined residents' awareness of Aedes mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit, aiming to support the World Health Organization's national and global fight against mosquito-borne diseases.

METHODS

The survey included 550 participants aged 18-75 years (249 males and 201 females). Door-to-door campaigns were conducted to gather data on knowledge scores, practices, and attitudes about Aedes mosquitoes using a standard structured questionnaire.

RESULTS

Findings of this study revealed a moderate level of knowledge across the study area, with a mean knowledge score of 5.525±2.58 (correct answer rate of 46.05%). While 99.6% of respondents were aware of dengue transmission by mosquitoes, only 64.5% were able to report Aedes mosquitoes as the key transmitter. Less than one-third of the participants (27.8%) were familiar with black-and-white stripes in Aedes. Additionally, only 36.7% were knowledgeable about the day-biting behavior of Aedes mosquitoes.

INTERPRETATION CONCLUSION

This KAP survey provides valuable insights into community understanding of Aedes mosquitoes and dengue prevention practices associated with various Nepalese communities residing in low to high altitudes of central Nepal. These findings can be adopted to address the increasing health burden faced by countries with low-to-high altitude regions within the Hindu Kush Himalayas.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding dengue among non-health undergraduate students of Nepal

Dengue poses a significant public health concern worldwide. It is identified as a recent emerging infectious disease in Nepal. Understanding the situation and dynamics between knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to dengue among students is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies. This study aimed to assess the KAP and their associated factors of dengue among non-health undergraduate students of Nepal to identify gaps and suggest appropriate interventions. A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 429 non-health undergraduate students at eleven Nepalese Universities, with 80% of participants from the four most prominent ones in the country. Self-administered online forms were administered via Google Forms platform predominantly through social media for data collection. Data was cleaned and then exported to IBM SPSS Statistics 20.0 for analysis. Demographic characteristics of respondents were described using descriptive statistics. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to determine the association between individual characteristics and KAP. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to determine the association between knowledge-attitude, attitude-practice, and knowledge-practice. Statistical significance was determined at the P-value < 0.05. Around half of the participants were female (50.3%). The majority of participants were between 22 to 37 years, unmarried, and belonged to the Brahmin/Chhetri ethnic group. This study demonstrated a significant gap in KAP. Only 15.2% of participants had good knowledge while 25.9% and 68.3% of participants exhibited good attitudes and practices respectively. Marital status (AOR = 3.32, CI: 1.32-8.34), third-year educational level (AOR = 3.59, CI:1.34-9.57), and fourth-year educational level (AOR = 4.93, CI:1.88-12.94) were significantly associated with knowledge regarding dengue. Age (AOR = 1.73, CI: 1.10-3.01) was significantly associated with preventive practice regarding dengue. None of the demographic or socio-economic characteristics of respondents was associated with attitude on dengue. The knowledge-attitude (rka = 0.01), knowledge-practice (rkp = 0.22), and attitude-practice (rap = 0.01) were positively correlated in this study.

Malaria elimination in West Java, Indonesia: A descriptive-and-qualitative study

BACKGROUND OBJECTIVES

Following World Health Organization (WHO) plans for thirty-five malaria-endemic countries, Indonesia will eliminate malaria by 2030. As one of the Indonesian provinces, West Java targeted subnational malaria elimination in 2022. This article aims to describe malaria surveillance data and elimination programs, including weaknesses in sustaining the program.

METHODS

This study used secondary data from malaria surveillance information system regencies/cities' case reports for 2019-2022 and achievement data of sub-national malaria elimination certification from each regency/city from 2014-2022. The data was confirmed from the evaluation study document, analysis of reported cases, and interviews.

RESULTS

Most cases were confirmed by microscopic examination (84.1% in 2021 and 94.4% in 2022) and rapid diagnostic tests (57% in 2019 and 58.1% in 2020). Malaria is more prevalent among men (93% in 2019, 95% in 2020, 96% in 2021, and 95.9% in 2022) and productive ages of 15-64 years (98.8% in 2019, 100% in 2020, 99.2% in 2021, and 98.8% in 2022), frequently occurs in the military (56.3% in 2019, 75.7% in 2020, 45.2% in 2021) and police (40.5% in 2022), often uses passive case detection for identifying cases (97.9% in 2019 and 2020, 95.2% in 2021, and 97.6% in 2022), and the majority undergo inpatient treatment (86.4% in 2019, 81.7% in 2021, and 82.6% in 2022). Most positive cases originated from imported cases, and last indigenous cases were still found in 2019. Plasmodium vivax dominated malaria cases and and relapses were high (55.0% in 2020, and 47.3% in 2022).

INTERPRETATION CONCLUSION

All regencies/cities have obtained sub-national malaria elimination certification in 2022. West Java has the potential to be verified for Java-Bali sub-national malaria elimination targeted in 2023, albeit cases of imported malaria still occur. It is imperative to address the issue of imported cases transitioning into locally transmitted cases (introduced) by effective coordination across all regencies/cities and inter-provincial efforts.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to dengue among public school teachers in a Central Luzon Province in the Philippines: an analytic cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Dengue has become a major health issue in tropical regions as the numbers of reported cases and estimated infections continuously increase. In the Philippines, many challenges remain in preventing and controlling the disease amidst all the mitigation efforts of the government. This study sought to measure the health literacy of Filipino teachers and determine the associations among teachers' knowledge, attitudes, and selected practices (KAP) against dengue.

METHODS

Elementary and secondary school teachers from the consistently declared dengue hotspots in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines, from the years 2017 to 2019 were selected as target participants in this cross-sectional study. A self-administered online survey tool was used in this study for both screening of participants and the KAP survey proper. STATA, descriptive statistics, and multiple logistic regression were used for the data analysis. Odds Ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.

RESULTS

The study comprised 604 participants whose mean age was 38.4 years. Television was determined as the top media source of information, and various health staff were the most trusted and common source of information. Good knowledge on dengue treatment (OR = 1.81; 95% CI 1.18-2.78) and dengue prevention (OR = 1.85; 95% CI 1.26-2.71) were positively associated with having good practices on protection against mosquito bites. Good knowledge on dengue signs and symptoms (OR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.02-2.37) and dengue prevention (OR = 2.38; 95% CI 1.59-3.58) were positively associated with having good practices on preventing breeding sites. Those with positive perceived susceptibility to dengue had lower odds of having good practices on protection against mosquito bites (OR = 0.64; 95% CI 0.41-0.99) and of having good practices on preventing breeding sites (OR = 0.46; 95% CI 0.26-0.81).

CONCLUSION

Even with the existing dengue policies, programs, and strategies, and the high disease literacy rate of Filipinos, dengue remains a struggle with an increasing case rate. Therefore, specific concepts should be emphasized, and interventions should be fine-tuned to better reach and influence the target population to attain a dengue-free Philippines.

Knowledge, perceptions, and exposure to bats in communities living around bat roosts in Bundibugyo district, Uganda: implications for viral haemorrhagic fever prevention and control

BACKGROUND

Bats are a reservoir for many viruses causing haemorrhagic fevers. Proximity to bats is a risk factor for virus spillover to animals and humans. We conducted this study to assess knowledge, perceptions, and exposure to bats in communities living near bat roosts in Bundibugyo District, Uganda.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study using mixed methods with both quantitative and qualitative data was conducted between September and December 2022. Participants for the quantitative data (survey) (n = 384) resided near bat caves and/or roost sites and were selected using multistage random sampling. The survey investigated participants' prior exposure to bats, as well as knowledge and perceptions of bat exposure. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with bat exposure. Participants for the qualitative data (focus group discussions) (n = 10, 6-8 participants each) were purposely selected based on engagement in guano mining, hunting, and farming activities. Perceived risk associated with bat-related activities were identified and ranked in the focus group discussions using participatory epidemiology tools.

RESULTS

In total, (214/384, 55.7%) had a history of bat exposure and (208/384, 54.2%) had poor knowledge of risk factors associated with bat exposure. Increased exposure to bats was associated with being male (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0, 2.4 p-value = 0.038), staying in urban areas (OR = 1.9; p-value = 0.010), hunting (OR = 10.9; p-value = 0.024), and positive perception to bat guano being safe as fertiliser (OR = 2.5; p-value = 0.045). During the proportional piling process, a total of 7 risk factors were identified by 10 groups with hunting during an outbreak and consumption of bats being the most frequently identified. Overall, there was a strong statistical agreement in the ranking across the 10 focus groups (W = 0.52; p < 0.01; n = 10). Based on the provided data, the adjusted odds ratio of 0.7 for the good measures (p-value = 0.112), suggests a potential protective effect on the risk of bat exposure.

CONCLUSION

Communities living around bat roosts frequently come into contact with bats, yet there is inadequate awareness regarding the behaviors that can lead to the transmission of bat- borne diseases to humans. It is essential to undertake educational initiatives and preventive measures to minimise the risks of bat-related infections. The need for targeted health communication and education efforts to address these knowledge gaps and promote an accurate understanding of bats and disease transmission. Understanding of diseases associated with bats will minimize bat-related health risks especially in communities engaged in wildlife hunting.

Literacy and attitude of Asian youths on dengue and its prevention in an endemic developed community

Background

Over the past few decades, the incidence of dengue fever has considerably increased. Effective vector control strategies and specific protection using dengue vaccine are thought to be the key elements to combat dengue. The dengue incidence among the Singapore youths (15-24 years) was second only to that of adults (25-44 years). This study evaluated the knowledge and attitude of Singapore youths on dengue and its preventive measures.

Methods

A cross-sectional study using online-based questionnaire survey was conducted among Singapore youths from September to November 2022. Data were analyzed for descriptive statistics whereas Chi-squared test, linear regression analysis and Pearson correlation were used to determine the association between demographic factors and youth's attitude on dengue prevention using Rstudio.

Results

A total of 624 respondents completed the survey out of 1822 surveys distributed nation-wide, with a response rate of 34.2% (mean age 17.4 years ± 1.84; 59.3% female; 89.9% Chinese). The mean dengue knowledge scores of participants were 14.1 ± 2.8. Univariate analysis showed that teenagers (15-19 years) had significantly higher knowledge score than the young adults (20-24 years) (β =0.82,95%CI = 0.13-1.51, p = 0.021). Majority of them were aware of the Mozzie Wipeout campaign (90.2%) followed by the release of Wolbachia mosquitos (69.1%). Two-thirds of the youths who were aware of Wolbachia and Gravitrap considered that it was effective in reducing dengue infection rates. Participants suggested information about the current dengue infection rate (71.9%) as the most effective of the five proposed strategies to improve uptake of dengue preventive measures. In comparison to young adults, teenagers were more likely to uptake dengue preventive measures if widespread mosquito control practices were implemented (69.1% vs. 42.3%).

Conclusion

The overall knowledge of the youths on dengue and its prevention was satisfactory. Future health promotion campaigns targeting the youths should focus on transforming the knowledge into practice.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Dengue Prevention Among Health Volunteers in an Urban Area - Malang, Indonesia

OBJECTIVES

The dengue prevention program known as "One House One Mosquito Larva Inspector" involves health volunteers who play a crucial role in the surveillance of mosquito larvae and reporting their findings to local public health officials. This study aimed to identify factors related to the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of dengue prevention behavior among these health volunteers.

METHODS

A study was conducted in 5 sub-districts in Malang, an urban area in Indonesia. We employed a cross-sectional design and utilized a semi-structured questionnaire to assess the KAP of 400 health volunteers. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews.

RESULTS

Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that individuals with a more positive attitude (odds ratio [OR], 1.69; p<0.05) and those with family sizes greater than five persons (OR, 1.90; p<0.05) were more likely to engage in effective dengue prevention practices. Additionally, possesing good knowledge was significantly assocated with more positive attitude (OR, 2.24; p<0.001). Furthermore, 40% reduction in positive attitude was observed in those over 45 years (OR, 0.60; p<0.05). The best practices most frequently reported by the majority of respondents included always reporting their surveillance activities (75.8%) and cleaning the water container in the bathroom at least once a week (65.2%). However, only 52.2% of respondents regularly checked for mosquito larvae in their neighborhood.

CONCLUSIONS

Sustainable promotion and training for the "One House One Mosquito Larva Inspector" initiative are necessary, particularly among young health volunteers, to improve dengue prevention behaviors both within their own homes and in the surrounding environment.

Societal knowledge, attitude, and practices towards dengue and associated factors in epidemic-hit areas: Geoinformation assisted empirical evidence

Dengue is one of Pakistan's major health concerns. In this study, we aimed to advance our understanding of the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) in Pakistan's Dengue Fever (DF) hotspots. Initially, at-risk communities were systematically identified via a well-known spatial modeling technique, named, Kernel Density Estimation, which was later targeted for a household-based cross-sectional survey of KAPs. To collect data on sociodemographic and KAPs, random sampling was utilized (n = 385, 5 % margin of error). Later, the association of different demographics (characteristics), knowledge, and attitude factors-potentially related to poor preventive practices was assessed using bivariate (individual) and multivariable (model) logistic regression analyses. Most respondents (>90 %) identified fever as a sign of DF; headache (73.8 %), joint pain (64.4 %), muscular pain (50.9 %), pain behind the eyes (41.8 %), bleeding (34.3 %), and skin rash (36.1 %) were identified relatively less. Regression results showed significant associations of poor knowledge/attitude with poor preventive practices; dengue vector (odds ratio [OR] = 3.733, 95 % confidence interval [CI ] = 2.377-5.861; P < 0.001), DF symptoms (OR = 3.088, 95 % CI = 1.949-4.894; P < 0.001), dengue transmission (OR = 1.933, 95 % CI = 1.265-2.956; P = 0.002), and attitude (OR = 3.813, 95 % CI = 1.548-9.395; P = 0.004). Moreover, education level was stronger in bivariate analysis and the strongest independent factor of poor preventive practices in multivariable analysis (illiterate: adjusted OR = 6.833, 95 % CI = 2.979-15.672; P < 0.001) and primary education (adjusted OR = 4.046, 95 % CI = 1.997-8.199; P < 0.001). This situation highlights knowledge gaps within urban communities, particularly in understanding dengue transmission and signs/symptoms. The level of education in urban communities also plays a substantial role in dengue control, as observed in this study, where poor preventive practices were more prevalent among illiterate and less educated respondents.

Public knowledge, belief, and preventive practices regarding dengue: Findings from a community-based survey in rural Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

Dengue fever, the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral infection, is a recurrent public health threat in Bangladesh. Despite the government's efforts, dengue outbreaks are on the upswing, and people's knowledge, belief, and preventive practices regarding the disease at the rural community level are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, belief and preventive practices regarding dengue and associated factors among community people from rural Bangladesh.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 401 people using a convenient sampling technique from three unions of Savar from August to September 2021. Participants' responses were collected through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested structured questionnaire that included information related to socio-demographics, dengue-related knowledge, preventive practices, and the health belief model (HBM) constructs. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with the knowledge and preventive practices of dengue.

RESULTS

Overall, participants (mean age = 33.47 ± 12.96 years; age range = 18-75 years) correctly answered 66.15% of the knowledge questions regarding dengue. Higher education, travel to dengue-risk regions, and self-efficacy under the HBM construct were all shown to be strongly associated with dengue knowledge. Regarding HBM constructs, about 80% of the participants perceived dengue as dangerous, but less than half (41.4%) believed themselves susceptible to dengue. Considering perceived barriers, 73.07% of the participants believed their residential area was not suitable for Aedes mosquito breeding. Nearly all (93.52%) believed they always kept their surrounding area clean as part of self-efficacy. Moreover, on average participants engaged in 53.69% of all dengue preventive practices. Being older, female, having a higher education, being a service holder, having a good quality of house structure, and perceived susceptibility as well as self-efficacy under the HBM construct were all factors in participants' dengue prevention activities. Participants' dengue preventative practices were shown to be significantly influenced by their knowledge.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study found a moderate level of knowledge regarding dengue among the participants. Regarding dengue prevention, although participants scored highly in several indicators, the overall preventive practices were not satisfactory. This suggests that there is a pressing need for expanded education outreach aimed at increasing public awareness of dengue and encourage preventive practices within rural communities in Bangladesh.

Understanding knowledge, attitude and perception of Rift Valley fever in Baringo South, Kenya: A cross-sectional study

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral hemorrhagic disease that affects humans and livestock. In Kenya, the disease has spread to new areas like Baringo County, with a growing realization that the epidemiology of the virus may also include endemic transmission. Local knowledge of a disease in susceptible communities is a major driver of prevention and control efforts. A cross-sectional survey using a semi-structured questionnaire was conducted in five locations of Baringo South that had reported RVF cases during the last outbreak, to determine the knowledge, attitude and perception of the predominantly agro-pastoralist community to RVF. Knowledge of RVF clinical signs, transmission, risk factors and prevention all contributed to the total knowledge score. Additionally, the respondents' attitude was based on their awareness of the threat posed by RVF and preparedness to take appropriate measures in case of suspected infection. Out of the 300 respondents, 80% had heard about the disease, however, only 9.6% attained at least half of the total knowledge score on RVF. Nevertheless, 86% recognized the threat it posed and knew the appropriate action to take in suspected human and livestock cases (positive attitude). Factors significantly associated with a better knowledge of RVF included higher education level, being Maasai, higher socio-economic index, old age and history of RVF in household members and livestock. Being Maasai and a higher socio-economic index were significantly associated with a positive attitude. The low level of knowledge exhibited by the respondents could be due to progressive loss of interest and information associated with a prolonged inter-outbreak period. This calls for regular awareness campaigns. More emphasis should also be put on educating communities on the role played by the mosquito vector in the epidemiology of RVF. The most promising routes of disseminating this information are radio and community gatherings.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare workers regarding dengue fever in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran

Background

Dengue fever is a rapidly emerging infection worldwide with a high public health burden. Adequate training of healthcare workers is essential to warrant the timely provision of health services to improve the outcome of dengue management.

Methods

This is an analytical cross-sectional study, conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) of healthcare workers regarding dengue from April 2021 to March 2022 in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Data was collected using a researcher-made structured questionnaire, prepared as Google Forms, and sent to target groups through social media and email. Data analysis was performed by SPSS 22 software using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square) at a significant level of 5%.

Results

Most of the respondents had heard about dengue (83.8%); media (32.7%) and academic education (25%) were the main sources of information. Respondents had less knowledge associated with dengue symptoms (52%) than prevention and control (69%), transmission (72.2%) and clinical management (81%). Based on the 70% cut-off point, the majority of the participants had a good attitude (81%) and practice (73%). However, only 49.6% of the respondents showed good practice regarding dengue local transmission. A significant difference was observed between participants knowledge on clinical management with occupation; attitude with gender and occupation; and practice with gender (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of this study revealed gaps in some dimensions of KAP in healthcare workers, therefore, a greater focus should be placed on future training programs to raise knowledge and attitude leading to sound practice and behavior for adequate management of dengue.

Outreach Vector Control Worker's Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Towards Mosquito Control and Associated Diseases

Background

Mosquito Control Programs are articulated to control Mosquito Borne Diseases and success of such programs depends on the activities of field workers, and their adherence to the standard operating procedures (SOP's) is governed by their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). Present study was intended to assess the KAP of mosquito control workers of Pakistan to get an exact depiction of prevailing situation.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in March-April 2020. Questionnaire containing 30 closed and open-ended questions were administrated to participants. Knowledge and practices were evaluated using a scoring system i.e., by giving 1 point to each correct answer while attitude questions were analyzed individually and expressed in percentage for each response.

Results

Total 639 workers were interviewed, mean age was 29.8 (SD ±7.87) years, majority (65.1%) was in age group of 18-30 years. Mean knowledge score was 6.96±1.28 (range 0-9) with 77.36% correct answers (P= 0.073). Mean practices score was 7.00±1.62 (range 2-9) with 77.83% appropriate answers (P< 0.001). Both knowledge and practices scores were higher for permanent employees, practices score increased with increase in job experience. Very weak positive correlation (r= 0.127) was observed between knowledge and practice scores.

Conclusion

Appropriate practice correlates with better knowledge and positive attitude towards control activities. Hence, training on protection and protective measures for having a positive attitude among healthcare workers is necessary against the fight with mosquitoes.

Effectiveness of dengue training programmes on prevention and control among high school students in the Yangon region, Myanmar

Background

Dengue is one of the health problems in Myanmar. Thus, health promotion in schools is considered a key approach for reducing risk-taking behaviours related to dengue.

Objectives

The study aimed to evaluate a dengue training programme for high school students to measure changes in knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards dengue; evaluate the effectiveness of the programme in improving prevention and control practices among families and determining changes in larval indices in their dwelling places.

Methodology

The dengue school training programme was conducted for Grades 9 and 10 students in Yangon. In total, 300 students in the intervention school received training and were compared with 300 students as control. KAP was assessed using a self-administered questionnaire, whereas larval and control practice surveys were conducted at the homes of both groups 3 months before and after the programme.

Results

The KAP scores of the intervention group increased after the programme. Moreover, the programme improved prevention and control practices and decreased the larval indices in the intervention group. Students from the same group with high scores in knowledge and self-reported practices were less likely to exhibit Aedes larval positivity in their residential areas.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the impact of the dengue training programme on the KAP of students and short-term family larval control practices, which influenced household larval indices.

Towfiqul Islam AR. Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Towards Dengue Fever Among Slum Dwellers: A Case Study in Dhaka City, Bangladesh

Objectives: This study intends to evaluate Dhaka city slum dwellers' responses to Dengue fever (DF). Methods: 745 individuals participated in a KAP survey that was pre-tested. Face-to-face interviews were performed to obtain data. Python with RStudio was used for data management and analysis. The multiple regression models were applied when applicable. Results: 50% of respondents were aware of the deadly effects of DF, its common symptoms, and its infectious nature. However, many were unaware that DF could be asymptomatic, a previously infected person could have DF again, and the virus could be passed to a fetus. Individuals agreed that their families, communities, and authorities should monitor and maintain their environment to prevent Aedes mosquito breeding. However, overall 60% of the study group had inadequate preventative measures. Many participants lacked necessary practices such as taking additional measures (cleaning and covering the water storage) and monitoring potential breeding places. Education and types of media for DF information were shown to promote DF prevention practices. Conclusion: Slum dwellers lack awareness and preventative activities that put them at risk for DF. Authorities must improve dengue surveillance. The findings suggest efficient knowledge distribution, community stimulation, and ongoing monitoring of preventative efforts to reduce DF. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to alter dwellers' behavior since DF control can be done by raising the population's level of life. People and communities must perform competently to eliminate vector breeding sites.

Dengue-Related Information Needs and Information-Seeking Behavior in Pakistan

This present study aims to examine the information needs and information-seeking behavior of Dengue-affected and non-affected people by exploring their information needs, resources used, and obstacles encountered. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 100 Dengue patients and 200 non-patients. The collected data were analyzed by applying descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that a majority of the respondents had information needs regarding nutritional options, best approaches to treatment, and expected benefits of treatment. They mostly sought information to keep themselves up-to-date and to prevent the disease. Television, Internet search engines, and social media outlets were frequently used information sources along with information-seeking from family and friends. Respondents with higher academic qualifications reported comparatively higher Dengue-related information needs. Moreover, age was a positive predictor of both their information needs and frequency of using health information sources. The findings will be helpful for healthcare providers to tailor Dengue awareness campaigns and prevention strategies according to the public needs and preferences.

Sociodemographic factors associated to knowledge and attitudes towards dengue prevention among the Peruvian population: findings from a national survey

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the frequency of knowledge and attitudes towards dengue prevention among the Peruvian population, as well as the sociodemographic factors associated with reported knowledge and attitude outcomes.

DESIGN/SETTING

A cross-sectional study was conducted, based on information from the National Survey of Budget Programs of Peru, 2019.

PARTICIPANTS

We included 57 829 respondents with a mean age of 40.3±17.4 years, of whom 52.8% were women and 87.6% were from urban areas.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES

Knowledge about dengue infection (transmission, symptoms, importance of going to a health centre and not self-medicating) and preventive attitudes to avoid infection.

RESULTS

Of all the respondents, 36.2% (n=23 247) presented good knowledge about dengue and 11.6% (n=7890) had a higher number of preventive attitudes (≥3 attitudes). In the multivariate regression analysis, we found that being female (for knowledge: aPR (adjusted prevalence ratio): 1.03; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.03; and for attitude: aPR: 1.02; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.02), being married/cohabiting (for knowledge: aPR: 1.02; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.03; and for attitude: aPR: 1.01; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.02) and residing in the jungle (for knowledge: aPR: 1.14; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.16; and for attitude: aPR: 1.09; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.11) were associated with better knowledge and more preventive attitudes. In addition, we found that being an adolescent (for knowledge: aPR: 0.97; 95% CI 0.96 to 0.99; and for attitude: aPR: 0.99; 95% CI 0.97 to 0.99), and belonging to the Quechua ethnic group (for knowledge: aPR: 0.93; 95% CI 0.91 to 0.94; and for attitude: aPR: 0.98; 95% CI 0.97 to 0.99) were associated with a lower proportion of adequate knowledge and fewer preventive attitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found a high proportion of poor knowledge and few preventive attitudes towards dengue in the Peruvian population. That highlights the requirement to implement national strategies to educate people about dengue and promote preventive attitudes, considering the factors found.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices toward Dengue Fever, Vector Control, and Vaccine Acceptance Among the General Population in Countries from Latin America and Asia Pacific: A Cross-Sectional Study (GEMKAP)

Dengue represents a major public health concern. With effective vaccines in development, it is important to identify motivational factors to maximize dengue vaccine uptake. A cross-sectional, quantitative, electronic survey was administered to a nationally representative adult population (n = 3800) in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Willingness to vaccinate against dengue, and Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) toward dengue, vector control, prevention, and vaccination were determined. The Capability, Opportunity, Motivation for Behavior change (COM-B) framework was used to identify factors correlated with dengue vaccine(s) uptake. KAP scores (standardized, 0–100% scale) resulted in a low global score for Knowledge (48%) and Practice (44%), and a moderate score for Attitude (66%); scores were comparable across countries. Of all respondents, 53% had a high willingness (Score: 8–10/10) to vaccinate against dengue, which was higher (59%) in Latin America (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico) than in Asia Pacific (40%) (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore). Key factors significantly (p < 0.05) associated with increased willingness to vaccinate included accessibility to the public (subsidies and incentives) and trust in the healthcare system and government. A common approach to dengue prevention across endemic countries––with some country-specific customization, including education, vaccination, and vector control (multi-pronged)––may reduce dengue burden and improve outcomes.

Indonesian Ulema Council Fatwa on Religious Activities During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Investigation of Muslim Attitudes and Practices

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1139 Muslims in Indonesia. Attitudes and practices were assessed using a questionnaire developed by researchers referring to the main points of the Indonesian Ulema Council fatwa on religious activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings suggest that most participants held positive attitudes (86.5%) and engaged in practices (76.4%). The regression analysis also indicates that attitudes explained approximately 31.5% of the variance in the practice score and 11.2% in the practice score while controlling for gender, age, residence, and education. The study reveals that understanding the relationship between sociodemographic variables, attitudes, and practices is relevant to implementing government policies related to religious practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health education impact on knowledge and management of arboviral diseases in Kenya: Evidence from randomised control trials

Communities' knowledge and management strategies are crucial for mitigating and controlling the threat of existing and emerging diseases. In this study, we conducted randomised control trials (RCT) to examine the impact of health education on households' knowledge and management of three Arboviral Diseases (ADs); Rift Valley fever, Chikungunya fever, and Dengue fever in Kenya. The study was based on a sample of 629 households drawn from the three of Kenya's AD hotspot counties; Baringo, Kwale, and Kilifi. Employing a difference-in-difference method, our findings indicate that health education intervention significantly improved households' understanding of ADs transmission modes, causes, and prevention strategies. However, this intervention did not sufficiently influence households' disease management behaviour. We recommend the implementation of community engagement and outreach initiatives which have the potential to drive behavioural changes at the household level, thus enhancing the management and control of ADs in Kenya.

Knowledge, Awareness and Prevalence of Hepatitis B Among Urban Slum Dwellers and Residents of Social Welfare Home: A Cross sectional Study From Eastern India

Background/aims

In view of limited data on the knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the available preventive strategies at the community level, it was aimed to analyse the knowledge and awareness of HBV in the community.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among residents of an urban slum and a social welfare home in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from October 2019 to April 2021. The prevalence of HBV infection was also measured by testing the serum positivity for hepatitis B surface antigen using rapid point-of-care test kits. The statistical analysis was done by using the software SPSS version 20.

Results

A total of 370 individuals (mean age 38.7 ± 14.9 years, males: 55.1%) were assessed. Although 18.1% (67) had good knowledge, only 16.7% (62) had good awareness about HBV. Approximately 14.8% (55) knew that a vaccine is available in the country for HBV, and 6.2% (23) identified themselves as being vaccinated. Educational status was a significant independent predictor of knowledge and awareness such that people with education level of matriculation and above had odds of 11.05 (95% confidence interval: 5.3-22.7) and 14.7 (95% confidence interval: 6.5-33.1) for having good knowledge and awareness regarding HBV, respectively. A total of 10 participants tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen contributing to a point prevalence rate of 2.7%. The proportion of individuals with an education status of matriculation and above was higher in the slum area when compared with the welfare home (67% vs 33%; P < 0.001), the knowledge (71.6% vs 28.4%; P < 0.001) and so was the awareness (71% vs 29%; P < 0.001) about HBV as well.

Conclusion

The relatively low figures of knowledge and awareness identified in our study undermine the need for intensification of health education and promotion activities regarding the prevalence of hepatitis B infection on a large scale at the community level.

Human monkeypox and preparedness of Bangladesh: A knowledge and attitude assessment study among medical doctors

OBJECTIVE

The recent increasing incidence of human monkeypox cases highlights the necessity of early detection, prompt response and preventive management to stop it in its tracks, and healthcare workers play the most crucial role here. This study aims at assessing the preparedness of Bangladeshi medical doctors by assessing their knowledge and attitude regarding monkeypox.

METHODOLOGY

This cross-sectional study was conducted among the practicing medical doctors all over Bangladesh. The data was collected from 26th May to 4th June of 2022 using a semi-structured and self-administered questionnaire which was distributed through the internet, and a total of 389 data was collected. The cut-off points for defining good knowledge and positive attitude towards human monkeypox were considered as 70% and 80% of total values, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify the factors associated with good knowledge and a positive attitude. Statistical software R version 4.2.0 was used for data analysis.

RESULT

Of all, 330 (84.83%) doctors displayed a positive attitude towards preventive practices, but only 119 (30.59%) participants had good knowledge regarding monkeypox. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, getting any information about monkeypox in the medical curriculum and learning about monkeypox within the last one month had a significant association with good knowledge. Apart from the participant's age, no other variables revealed any significant association with a positive attitude toward preventive practices. Good knowledge showed a significant association with positive attitude (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Knowledge regarding human monkeypox among medical doctors in Bangladesh was comparatively lower than the attitude towards its preventive measures. Developing and implementing practical sessions regarding the virus to enhance the knowledge and capacity of the medical doctors could be an effective strategy to get prepared for the monkeypox outbreak in Bangladesh.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of the Population in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia Regarding Dengue Fever and Its Prevention Measures: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

In previous studies, there was an apparent lack of health education about dengue fever (DF) among the Saudi population. Therefore, we conducted this study to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) about dengue fever among the Jazan region population, which is one of the most prevalent diseases in the region in Saudi Arabia (KSA). This was a cross-sectional and community-based study. The adult population was divided into governorates according to the regions that were close to each other, and then a convenient stratum was selected from each region. Next, random sampling was applied. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Exclusion criteria were young people (<18 years old) and health workers. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, the Pearson's correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regression. Of the 392 participants in this cross-sectional study, 59.18% were male, 76.28% were aged 18-35 years, 72.96% had a university degree, and 63% had a monthly income of less than SAR 5000 (USD1 = 3.76). The scores (mean ± SD) for KAP regarding DF among the responders were 22.77 ± 7.9, 22.68 ± 7.24, and 25.62 ± 9.4, respectively. KAP constructs were positively correlated according to the Pearson's coefficient. In multiple linear regression analysis, males were favorably and substantially linked with attitude score (β = 2.76, p = 0.001) and negatively associated with practice score (β = -2.45, p = 0.023). No-degree participants scored lower on knowledge (β = -2.78, p = 0.003). There is potential for more research in Saudi Arabia to increase the generalizability to reduce the impact of dengue epidemics.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices of the community toward dengue fever in Shabwah Governorate, Yemen: a descriptive study

BACKGROUND

In Yemen, dengue fever (DF) is a widespread, locally endemic infectious disease, with high morbidity and mortality which mainly affects impoverished regions. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of the Shabwah community in Yemen regarding DF characteristics and prevention.

METHODS

The present study is a cross-sectional community-based study conducted in Shabwah Governorate, Yemen, between June 2021 and November 2021. Simple random sampling was used to select the sample (n = 370), and a validated closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect data.

RESULTS

In total, 370 individuals participated in this study; most respondents were female (N = 247, 66.8%), and more than half (N = 214, 57.8%) were younger than age 30. More than 50% of the population had completed a primary or secondary school, while approximately 33.03% of them were illiterate. Furthermore, more than half (53.5%) of the population had good knowledge of DF, while most of those educated at a university level (64.1%) had good attitude toward DF. Most of the population (68.4%) had good practice toward DF. Moreover, participants with a university level education, followed by those who completed secondary school, had significantly higher knowledge and practice scores than primary school and illiteracy (P = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the study indicate that the residents of Yemen's Shabwah Governorate are well-informed about the symptoms and signs of DF, have a positive attitude toward the disease, and employ appropriate preventive measures. Health education via various media should be mandated to increase community awareness and dispel misconceptions about DF.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of dengue prevention between dengue sustained hotspots and non-sustained hotspots in Singapore: a cross-sectional study

Dengue sustained hotspots (SHS) have resulted in a significant public health burden. In our study, we aimed to (1) compare knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) scores between SHS and non-sustained hotspots (NSHS); and (2) identify and describe gaps and factors associated with KAP of dengue prevention among SHS residents residing in Singapore. A cross-sectional study with convenience sampling was conducted using digital survey in randomly selected SHS and NSHS residential areas, consisting of residents aged 21 or older and who had been residing in their existing housing unit in 2019 and 2020. Chi-square test and T-test were used for comparison analysis of categorical and continuous variables, respectively. A total of 466 respondents completed the self-administered, anonymous survey. There were no significant difference in mean scores for Knowledge [SHS(24.66) vs. NSHS(24.37); P: 0.18], Attitudes [SHS(10.38) vs NSHS(10.16); P: 0.08] and Practices [SHS(9.27) vs NSHS(8.80); P: 0.16] sections. Significant SHS-associated factors identified were age group 41-50 years old [95%CI: 1.25-5.03], Malay (95%CI: 0.17-0.98), up to secondary school education (95%CI: 0.07-0.65), private condominium (95%CI: 1.17-3.39), residing in same household unit for 2-5 years (95%CI: 2.44-6.88), respondents who know that mosquito can breed in open container with stagnant water (95%CI: 0.06-0.98), disagree that reducing Aedes mosquitoes is the only way to prevent dengue: (95%CI: 1.19-3.00) and go to clinic/hospital even without severe symptoms: (95%CI: 0.39-0.95). These independent factors associated with dengue sustained hotspots may influence the risk of dengue transmission in residential areas.

Influence of public hesitancy and receptivity on reactive behaviours towards releases of male Wolbachia-Aedes mosquitoes for dengue control

Singapore, a highly urbanized Asian tropical country that experiences periodic dengue outbreaks, is piloting field releases of male Wolbachia-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes with the aim of suppressing urban populations of the primary dengue vector Aedes aegypti. This study proposes and assesses a model to explain the roles of hesitancy and receptivity towards Project Wolbachia-Singapore in influencing reactive mosquito prevention behaviors (reactive behaviors) towards the release of Wolbachia-Aedes mosquitoes for residents living in the release sites. Interestingly, both hesitancy and receptivity predicted greater instances of reactive behaviors. The model also examines the roles of general knowledge about Wolbachia technology, perceived severity of mosquito bites, perceived density of mosquitoes, and social responsibility as predictors of hesitancy, receptivity, and reactive behaviors towards the release of Wolbachia-Aedes mosquitoes. Hesitancy towards the project mediated the effects of general knowledge, perceived severity of mosquito bites, and perceived density of mosquitoes on reactive behaviors towards the releases, although receptivity towards the project did not. Having less knowledge about Project Wolbachia-Singapore was associated with higher hesitancy towards the project and higher likelihood of performing reactive behaviors towards the releases. Individuals who perceive mosquito bites to be more severe and think that there are more mosquitoes in their living environments were also more likely to be hesitant about the project and practice reactive behaviors. However, both hesitancy and receptivity towards the project mediated the effect of social responsibility on reactive behaviors. Receptivity towards the project was driven by social responsibility, which was also associated with reduced hesitancy towards the project. Our findings suggest that, to address the hesitancy reported by a minority of participants, future outreach efforts should focus on strengthening the public's sense of social responsibility and on tailored education campaigns targeting groups with low levels of knowledge of the project.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices among HIV/Leishmaniasis Co-Infected Patients in Bihar, India

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a serious public health concern in the Indian state of Bihar, which has been exacerbated by an increasing HIV/AIDS incidence that has resulted in poor clinical outcomes. So far, there has been no investigation into the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of people who have been subjected to hospital-based supervision for VL or HIV/VL co-infection. This study assessed the KAP toward VL infection among 210 VL-infected patients (126 participants with VL and 84 participants with HIV/VL) using a pretested standard questionnaire. The findings are summarized descriptively and KAP scores are classified dichotomously (good/poor). Multivariable logistic regression and bivariate correlation were used in the analysis. The study showed that both VL-infected and co-infected patients exhibited similar deficits in KAP scores toward VL. The HIV/VL participants who had a personal or family history of VL were more likely to have appropriate awareness of and preventive practices toward VL. The independent predictors of attitude index in HIV/VL participants were education, VL family history, and marital status. There was a weak but significant positive correlation between knowledge and practice (rs = 0.321, p<0.001), and attitude and practice (rs = 0.294, p<0.001), while knowledge was strongly correlated with attitude (rs = 0.634, p<0.001). Based on the study findings, it is recommended that treatment programs in Bihar should concentrate on strengthening KAP among VL and HIV/VL co-infected patients to prevent reinfection-related complications. Behavior change communication intervention is ideal for tackling this problem. This proposal entails building a comprehensive public health program in endemic regions.

Dengue Fever Responses in Dhaka City, Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Objectives: This study intends to evaluate the Dhaka city residents’ individual views toward DF.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey used google forms for collecting data. Python and RStudio were used for data management and analysis. Kruskal-Wallis or Mann-Whitney U test and logistic regression models were performed, where appropriate.

Results: In total 1008 individuals participated in a pre-tested KAP survey. More than 20% reported being affected by DF before the survey, where they rated their current places as being moderately safe (43%). In terms of DF control, 65% had good knowledge, and 68% reported good practice, whereas they demonstrated an overall good attitude. The increased knowledge of individuals could contribute to behavioral changes regarding DF. Female residents demonstrated better DF attitudes (OR: 0.69; p &lt; 0.05) and practices (OR: 0.66; p &lt; 0.01) compared to male residents. Mixed unit residents had poor KAP levels. Educational attainment can also play an essential role in enhancing the attitude level.

Conclusion: Overall, dengue surveillance activities with sufficient campaigns are required for behavioral change in Dhaka city. This information could be integrated into other DF-affected countries’ strategies against dengue outbreaks.

Assessment of Knowledge of Monkeypox Viral Infection among the General Population in Saudi Arabia

Monkeypox is re-emerging and spreading over the world, posing a serious threat to human life, especially in non-endemic countries, including Saudi Arabia. Due to the paucity of research on knowledge about monkeypox in Saudi Arabia, this study aimed to evaluate the general population’s knowledge of monkeypox in a sample of the country. A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from 25 May 2022 to 15 July 2022. Participants’ knowledge about monkeypox on a 23-item scale and socio-demographic characteristics were gathered in the survey. Pearson’s Chi-square test was used to compare knowledge level (categorized into high and low) and explanatory variables. Out of 480, only 48% of the respondents had high knowledge (mean score > 14). Participants’ age, marital status, residential region, living in the urban area, education level, employment status, being a healthcare worker, income, and smoking status were significantly associated with the level of knowledge about monkeypox (p < 0.01). Overall, social media (75.0%) was the most frequently reported source from where participants obtained monkeypox-related information followed by TV and radio (45.6%), family or friend (15.6%), and healthcare provider (13.8%). We found that overall knowledge of monkeypox infection was slightly poor among the Saudi population. These findings highlight the urgent need for public education on monkeypox to promote awareness and engage the public ahead of the outbreak.

A cross-sectional study to assess the epidemiological situation and associated risk factors of dengue fever; knowledge, attitudes, and practices about dengue prevention in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan

Background

Dengue fever has been responsible for around 12 countrywide large outbreaks in Pakistan, resulting in 286,262 morbidities and 1,108 deaths. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is the most recently impacted province. This study aimed to investigate the molecular, epidemiological, and potential elements that contribute to increasing dengue transmission patterns, and knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward dengue in KP province.

Method

This cross-sectional community-based study was conducted (June-December, 2021) in two phases. Phase I involved the epidemiological (n = 5,242) and molecular analysis of DENV in 500 randomly collected blood samples of the 2021 dengue outbreak in KP. Phase II focused on assessing dengue-KAP levels in healthy communities (n = 14,745, aged >18 years), adopting a cross-sectional clustered multistage sampling in eight districts (dengue-hotspot vs. non-hotspot) of KP. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis were applied.

Results

Peshawar district had the highest dengue cases (60.0%) associated with the predominant co-circulation of DENV-2 (45.8%) and DENV-3 (50.4%) serotypes. A rise in cases was reported in October (41.8%) followed by September (27.9%) and August (14.4%; p < 0.001). Males (63.7%, p < 0.001) and individuals aged 16–30 years (37.0%, p < 0.001) were highly affected. General workers (18.0%), families with a monthly income of 10,000–20,000 Pak rupees (50.5%), unmarried (71.0%), uneducated (31%), families with higher human density (>10 individuals per household), and those (29.0%) who faced power outages for more than 7/24 h were the most affected. Moreover, co-morbidities like renal failure and bronchial asthma were associated with disease severity. A community survey on KAP revealed that an average of 74, 60, and 43% of the participants demonstrated good knowledge, attitudes, and dengue preventive practices, respectively.

Conclusion

Multiple poor socioeconomic elements are influencing dengue fever transmission in the province. Higher KAP levels may explain the low frequency of dengue in non-hotspot districts. Our study emphasizes the need for effective and long-term public health education, strengthened vector surveillance, and expanded laboratory capacity for better diagnosis and management of dengue cases to better predict the burden and seasonality of disease in the country.

Knowledge of hepatitis B among healthy population in community

Hepatitis B is the world’s most common blood‑borne viral infection, accounting for 2 billion infections, 350 million carriers, and 6 lakh deaths annually. Aim of the paper is to determine the level of knowledge among healthy population in North Macedonia regarding Hepatitis B virus infection. Material and methods: A community‑based cross‑sectional study was undertaken. Questionnaire was administered to 600 healthy individuals, who heard about hepatitis B. Data handled and analyzed by using statistical package SPSS. Results: The profile of those who give the correct answer regarding the cause of hepatitis B that it is a virus are women (65.3%), aged 40 to 49 (42.8%), by nationality are Macedonian, have higher education (52.8%), 92.8% live in urban areas, 74.3% are married, employed (79.2%) and have a moderate monthly income (68.9). About one‑third of the sample said that loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting also associated with hepatitis B. There is a significant difference in knowledge related to early (prodromal) (symptoms such as cold and flu - fever, runny nose, cough) symptoms of hepatitis infection. Only 17.7% give the correct answer that they register, and 81.7% do not. Jaundice is one of the common symptoms of hepatitis, 32.2% give the correct answer, and 25.8% of the symptoms that are present and common are nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Conclusions: Important knowledge deficits about the routes of hepatitis B transmission/prevention were identified. Continued efforts should be made to develop and implement hepatitis B educational campaigns/health promotion for these communities.

The knowledge, attitude and practice of community people on dengue fever in Central Nepal: a cross-sectional study

Background

Since 2006, Nepal has experienced frequent Dengue fever (DF) outbreaks. Up to now, there have been no knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) studies carried out on DF in Nepal that have included qualitative in-depth and quantitative data. Thus, we aimed to explore and compare the KAP of people residing in the lowland (< 1500 m) and highland (> 1500 m) areas of Nepal.

Methods

A cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted in six districts of central Nepal in September–October 2018 including both quantitative (660 household surveys) and qualitative data (12 focus group discussions and 27 in-depth interviews). The KAP assessment was executed using a scoring system and defined as high or low based on 80% cut-off point. Logistic regression was used to investigate the associated factors, in quantitative analysis. The deductive followed by inductive approach was adopted to identify the themes in the qualitative data.

Results

The study revealed that both the awareness about DF and prevention measures were low. Among the surveyed participants, 40.6% had previously heard about DF with a significantly higher number in the lowland areas. Similarly, IDI and FGD participants from the lowland areas were aware about DF, and it’s associated symptoms, hence they were adopting better preventive practices against DF. The findings of both the qualitative and quantitative data indicate that people residing in the lowland areas had better knowledge on DF compared to people in highland areas. All IDI participants perceived a higher chance of increasing future dengue outbreaks due to increasing temperature and the mobility of infected people from endemic to non-endemic areas. The most quoted sources of information were the television (71.8%) and radio (51.5%). Overall, only 2.3% of the HHS participants obtained high knowledge scores, 74.1% obtained high attitude scores and 21.2% obtained high preventive practice scores on DF. Among the socio-demographic variables, the area of residence, educational level, age, monthly income, SES and occupation were independent predictors of knowledge level, while the education level of the participants was an independent predictor of the attitude level.

Conclusions

Our study found a very low level of knowledge and insufficient preventive practices. This highlights an urgent need for extensive dengue prevention programs in both highland and lowland communities of Nepal.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07404-4.

Knowledge, Attitudes, Beliefs, and Practices Regarding Dengue in La Réunion Island, France

Since 2017, La Réunion island has been facing a major epidemic of dengue. Despite actions carried out by the anti-vector control department, public authorities have failed to contain this epidemic. As individual involvement is key to success in vector control, we carried out a mixed-methods study on population knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices (KABP) regarding dengue infection risk in La Réunion. The study combined quantitative data collected through a questionnaire administered to a representative sample of 622 people to assess the use of protective measures and the perception of severity and risk of dengue, and a sample of 336 people to assess the level of knowledge and concern about dengue, as well as qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews among 11 individuals who had previously completed the questionnaire. The study results show that 63% of the surveyed population had a good level of knowledge associated with age, education, and socio-professional category variables—78% considered dengue to be a serious threat, and concern was estimated at 6/10, while 71% were likely to use protective measures. The interviews revealed contradictory behaviors in the implementation of recommended actions, in conflict with personal beliefs regarding respect of human body and nature. The study also revealed a loss of confidence in public authorities.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices towards Dengue Fever among University Students of Dhaka City, Bangladesh

Dhaka has become the worst affected city in Bangladesh regarding dengue fever (DF). A large number of university students are residing in this city with a high DF risk. This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the DF status and responses among these students through their Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) survey. A total of 625 students participated in an online self-reported survey. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the status and KAP regarding DF. University students from the city perceived their living places as moderately safe (45.28%) against DF, whereas about 20% reported their DF infection history. Some of these students had exemplary DF knowledge (66.72%), attitude (89.28%), and practices (68.32%). However, many of them were also observed with a lack of knowledge about this disease’s infectious behavior, recognizing Aedes mosquito breeding sites, multiple infection cases, and the risk of DF viral infection during pregnancy. Fair correlations (p < 0.001) were determined in the KAP domain. Gender, residential unit, major, and dengue-relevant subjects were found to be significant predictors (p < 0.05) of KAP level in the univariate analysis. Major subject and residential units remained significant predictors of overall KAP level in further multiple analysis. This study revealed the urgency of infectious disease-related subjects and the relevant demonstration into the university curriculum. The study’s findings can assist the university, government and non-governmental organizations, and the health and social workers to prepare a comprehensive dengue response and preparedness plan.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior of Larva Monitoring Interpreter (Jumantik) Cadre as Efforts to Prevent Dengue Cases

Background: Efforts to prevent and control DHF in Palu City are still inadequate. The lack of community participation in the implementation of 3M causes the density of Aedes aegypti larvae to be high. Objective: To analyze the knowledge, attitudes and behavior of larva monitoring interpreters before and after being given health education in reducing dengue cases. Methods: This type of research is a quasi-experimental, with one group pre and posttest design. Carried out in Palu City, Central Sulawesi Province and Pasang Kayu Regency, West Sulawesi Province. The sample size is 98 Jumantik cadres. The interview study instrument used a set of previously validated and tested questionnaires. Informed consent was taken from all respondents and confidentiality was guaranteed throughout the study. Data were analyzed using SPSS with Paired T-test dependent   Results: Knowledge about ways to prevent DHF increased the highest from the pre-test (20.10) post-test (51.77) which means that it increased by 32.3% p = 0.000, the smallest increase in knowledge about the spread of DHF was the pre-test value ( 12.9) post-test (14.2) means an increase of 1.3% p=0.003. The attitude that increased the most was the effort to control DHF with a pre-test value (9.4) post-test (48.2%) increased by 38.8% p = 0.000, while the smallest increase was the attitude of responsibility for controlling DHF with a pre-test value. -test (53.32) post-test (53.50) increased by 0.18% p=0.737. The behavior with the highest increase in value was about larval control with a pre-test score (4.75) post-test (37.78) means an increase of 33.0% p = 0.000, while the smallest increase is the behavior of draining the water tank with the pre-test (26.87) post-test (35.83) increasing 8.96% p = 0.002. Conclusion: Health education through counseling methods is effective in increasing the knowledge, attitudes and behavior of Jumantik Cadres in preventing dengue fever in Palu City, Central Sulawesi and Pasangkayu Regency, West Sulawesi

Development of Assessment Tool to Measure Children’s Knowledge on Dengue Prevention Activities in Malaysia

Dengue is one of the public health concerns in developing and developed countries. Since the main control measure for dengue is health prevention and control activities, especially among children, it is essential to assess children's knowledge on dengue prevention activities in preventing the disease. This study aimed to develop an assessment tool (CAB-IHBR-Dengue-C-01) attempting to measure children's knowledge of dengue prevention activities in Malaysia. Twelve (12) pictorials with descriptions were developed to capture children's understanding of the correct method of dengue prevention activities. Cronbach' alpha test was used to assess the internal consistency of the items, and the test and retest reliability method was used to measure the consistency of the questionnaire. For test-retest reliability analysis, tests were conducted twice, with an interval of two (2) weeks from the first test. In total, 58 respondents comprising of Malay, Chinese, and Indian aged between 7 and 12 years old were included in this study. The results showed the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) score was 0.640; with moderate reliability; meanwhile, Cronbach's alpha score was 0.606. In conclusion, CAB-IHBR-Dengue-C-01 (Cognitive Affective Behaviour-Institute for Health Behavioural Research-Dengue-Children-Version 01) is reliable to be used.

The Seroprevalence of Dengue Virus Infection and Its Association With Iron (Fe) Level in Pregnant Women in Guangzhou, China

Dengue fever is regarded as the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral disease in humans. However, information of dengue virus (DENV) infection in pregnant women and the influence factors remain unclear. In this study, we extracted information of 2,076 pregnant women from the Prenatal Environment and Offspring Health (PEOH) birth cohort conducted since 2016 in Guangzhou, China. Peripheral blood and clean midstream urine samples of participants were collected during their hospitalization for childbirth. Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies of DENV in serum samples, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was applied to determine the Fe concentrations in the urine samples, which were then adjusted for by urine creatinine and transformed by natural logarithm (ln-Fe). The seroprevalence of DENV IgG antibody in all included participants was 2.22% (46/2,076). We observed higher seroprevalence of IgG antibody in women aged ≥35 years (2.9%), education ≤ 12 years (2.5%), yearly income per capita <100,000 yuan (2.4%), no use of air-conditioner (2.4%), no use of mosquito coils (2.3%), and no exercise during pregnancy (4.1%). A U-shaped relationship was found between ln-Fe concentration and the risk of positive IgG antibody. Compared with women with ln-Fe concentration of 2.0–2.9 μg/g creatinine, slightly higher risks of positive IgG antibody were found among women with ≤2.0 (RR = 4.16, 95% CI: 0.78, 19.91), 3.0–3.9 (RR = 1.93, 95% CI: 0.65, 7.08), 4.0–4.9 (RR = 2.19, 95% CI: 0.65, 8.51), and ≥5.0 μg/g creatinine of ln-Fe (RR = 2.42, 95% CI: 0.46, 11.33). Our findings suggested that the seroprevalence of dengue IgG antibody in pregnant women was comparable to the general population in Guangzhou, China. The risk of DENV infection may be associated with maternal demographic characteristics and behaviors. Both maternal low and high Fe concentrations may be positively associated with the risk of DENV infection.

Taylor-Robinson A, Wu YS, Aung YN, Low WY, Sim MS, Sekaran SD, Azizan N. Different domains of dengue research in the Philippines: A systematic review and meta-analysis of questionnaire-based studies

Background

Dengue is the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease of humans worldwide, including southeast Asia region. This review provides a comprehensive overview of questionnaire-related dengue studies conducted in the Philippines and evaluates their reliability and validity in these surveys.

Methods

A review protocol constructed by a panel of experienced academic reviewers was used to formulate the methodology, research design, search strategy and selection criteria. An extensive literature search was conducted between March–June 2020 in various major electronic biomedical databases including PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE and ScienceDirect. A systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) were selected as the preferred item reporting method.

Results

Out of a total of 34 peer-reviewed dengue-related KAP studies that were identified, 15 published from 2000 to April 2020 met the inclusion criteria. Based on the meta-analysis, a poor mean score was obtained for each of knowledge (68.89), attitude (49.86) and preventive practice (64.69). Most respondents were equipped with a good knowledge of the major clinical signs of dengue. Worryingly, 95% of respondents showed several negative attitudes towards dengue prevention, claiming that this was not possible and that enacting preventive practices was not their responsibility. Interestingly, television or radio was claimed as the main source of gaining dengue information (range 50–95%). Lastly, only five articles (33.3%) piloted or pretested their questionnaire before surveying, of which three reported Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (range 0.70 to 0.90).

Conclusion

This review indicates that to combat the growing public health threat of dengue to the Philippines, we need the active participation of resident communities, full engagement of healthcare personnel, promotion of awareness campaigns, and access to safe complementary and alternative medicines. Importantly, the psychometric properties of each questionnaire should be assessed rigorously.

Explaining Neighbourhood Variations in the Incidence of Dengue Fever in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia

The rapid growth and development of cities is a contributing factor to the rise and persistence of dengue fever (DF) in many areas around the world. Many studies have examined how neighbourhood environmental conditions contribute to dengue fever and its spread, but have not paid enough attention to links between socio-economic conditions and other factors, including population composition, population density, the presence of migrant groups, and neighbourhood environmental conditions. This study examines DF and its distribution across 56 neighbourhoods of Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia, where the incidence of dengue remains high. Using stepwise multiple regression analysis it focuses on the key ecological correlates of DF from 2006-2009, the years of the initial outbreak. Neighbourhood variations in average case rates per 10,000 population (2006-2009) were largely predicted by the Saudi gender ratio and socio-economic status (SES), the respective beta coefficients being 0.56 and 0.32 (p < 0.001). Overall, 77.1% of cases occurred in the poorest neighbourhoods. SES effects, however, are complex and were partly mediated by neighbourhood population density and the presence of migrant groups. SES effects persisted after controls for both factors, suggesting the effect of other structural factors and reflecting a lack of DF awareness and the lack of vector control strategies in poorer neighbourhoods. Neighbourhood environmental conditions, as measured by the presence of surface water, were not significant. It is suggested that future research pay more attention to the different pathways that link neighbourhood social status to dengue and wider health outcomes.

Mapping the spatial distribution of the dengue vector Aedes aegypti and predicting its abundance in northeastern Thailand using machine-learning approach

BACKGROUND

Mapping the spatial distribution of the dengue vector Aedes (Ae.) aegypti and accurately predicting its abundance are crucial for designing effective vector control strategies and early warning tools for dengue epidemic prevention. Socio-ecological and landscape factors influence Ae. aegypti abundance. Therefore, we aimed to map the spatial distribution of female adult Ae. aegypti and predict its abundance in northeastern Thailand based on socioeconomic, climate change, and dengue knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) and/or landscape factors using machine learning (ML)-based system.

METHOD

A total of 1066 females adult Ae. aegypti were collected from four villages in northeastern Thailand during January-December 2019. Information on household socioeconomics, KAP regarding climate change and dengue, and satellite-based landscape data were also acquired. Geographic information systems (GIS) were used to map the household-based spatial distribution of female adult Ae. aegypti abundance (high/low). Five popular supervised learning models, logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbor (kNN), artificial neural network (ANN), and random forest (RF), were used to predict females adult Ae. aegypti abundance (high/low). The predictive accuracy of each modeling technique was calculated and evaluated. Important variables for predicting female adult Ae. aegypti abundance were also identified using the best-fitted model.

RESULTS

Urban areas had higher abundance of female adult Ae. aegypti compared to rural areas. Overall, study respondents in both urban and rural areas had inadequate KAP regarding climate change and dengue. The average landscape factors per household in urban areas were rice crop (47.4%), natural tree cover (17.8%), built-up area (13.2%), permanent wetlands (21.2%), and rubber plantation (0%), and the corresponding figures for rural areas were 12.1, 2.0, 38.7, 40.1 and 0.1% respectively. Among all assessed models, RF showed the best prediction performance (socioeconomics: area under curve, AUC = 0.93, classification accuracy, CA = 0.86, F1 score = 0.85; KAP: AUC = 0.95, CA = 0.92, F1 = 0.90; landscape: AUC = 0.96, CA = 0.89, F1 = 0.87) for female adult Ae. aegypti abundance. The combined influences of all factors further improved the predictive accuracy in RF model (socioeconomics + KAP + landscape: AUC = 0.99, CA = 0.96 and F1 = 0.95). Dengue prevention practices were shown to be the most important predictor in the RF model for female adult Ae. aegypti abundance in northeastern Thailand.

CONCLUSION

The RF model is more suitable for the prediction of Ae. aegypti abundance in northeastern Thailand. Our study exemplifies that the application of GIS and machine learning systems has significant potential for understanding the spatial distribution of dengue vectors and predicting its abundance. The study findings might help optimize vector control strategies, future mosquito suppression, prediction and control strategies of epidemic arboviral diseases (dengue, chikungunya, and Zika). Such strategies can be incorporated into One Health approaches applying transdisciplinary approaches considering human-vector and agro-environmental interrelationships.

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.

Climate change and dengue fever knowledge, attitudes and practices in Bangladesh: a social media-based cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

Bangladesh experienced its worst dengue fever (DF) outbreak in 2019. This study investigated the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among university students in Bangladesh and significant factors associated with their prevention practices related to climate change and DF.

METHODS

A social media-based (Facebook) cross-sectional KAP survey was conducted and secondary data of reported DF cases in 2019 extracted. Logistic regression and spatial analysis were run to examine the data.

RESULTS

Of 1500 respondents, 76% believed that climate change can affect DF transmission. However, participants reported good climate change knowledge (76.7%), attitudes (87.9%) and practices (39.1%). The corresponding figures for DF were knowledge (47.9%), attitudes (80.3%) and practices (25.9%). Good knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with good climate change adaptation or mitigation practices (p<0.05). Good knowledge, attitudes and previous DF experiences were also found to be significantly associated with good DF prevention practices (p<0.001). There was no significant positive correlation between climate change and DF KAP scores and the number of DF cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings from this study provide baseline data that can be used to promote educational campaigns and intervention programs focusing on climate change adaptation and mitigation and effective DF prevention strategies among various communities in Bangladesh and similar dengue-endemic countries.

Dengue awareness, preventive behaviours and Aedes breeding opportunities among slums and slum-like pockets in Delhi, India: a formative assessment

BACKGROUND

India is endemic for dengue. The present formative study reports awareness and practices of people regarding dengue and its prevention, personal protection behaviours and peoples' exposure to dengue-related health promotion activities.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of 1194 households randomly selected from 20 slum clusters in Delhi. Data were collected from an adult member of the household through an interviewer-administered, pre-tested questionnaire. An observation checklist was used to identify potential breeding sources.

RESULTS

People were aware that dengue is transmitted through mosquitoes and sources of breeding (clean, stagnant water -60.1%, domestic water containers -18.7%, coolers -15.0%). Each house had at least one potential source of mosquito breeding. Using mosquito repellents (83.3%) was the most common personal protection behaviour. Peoples' participation is limited in the mosquito prevention and health promotion activities carried out by the local municipality. Still, participation resulted in positive behavioural change.

CONCLUSIONS

While people were aware of dengue transmission, preventive measures against mosquito breeding were not satisfactory. People could not relate their existing knowledge on dengue to their household surroundings, and their awareness had not been translated to behavioural change. Community participation is limited, but is significant in the prevention and control of dengue.

Knowledge, awareness and preventive practices of dengue outbreak in Bangladesh: A countrywide study

Background

Dengue, the mosquito borne disease has become a growing public health threat in Bangladesh due to its gradual increasing morbidity and mortality since 2000. In 2019, the country witnessed the worst ever dengue outbreak. The present study was conducted to characterize the socio-economic factors and knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) status towards dengue among the people of Bangladesh.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,010 randomly selected respondents from nine different administrative regions of Bangladesh between July and November 2019.

A structured questionnaire was used covering socio-demographic characteristics of the participants including their knowledge, awareness, treatment and practices regarding dengue fever. Factors associated with the knowledge and awareness of dengue were investigated separately, using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Although majority (93.8%) of the respondents had heard about dengue, however, they had still misconceptions about Aedes breeding habitat. Around half of the study population (45.7%) had mistaken belief that Aedes can breed in dirty water and 43.1% knew that Aedes mosquito usually bites around sunrise and sunset. Fever indication was found in 36.6% of people which is the most common symptom of dengue. Among the socio-demographic variables, the level of education of the respondents was identified as an independent predictor for both knowledge (p<0.05) and awareness (p<0.05) of dengue. The preventive practice level was moderately less than the knowledge level though there was a significant association (p<0.05) existed between knowledge and preventive practices. Our study noted that TV/Radio is an effective predominant source of information about dengue fever.

Conclusion

As dengue is emerging in Bangladesh, there is an urgent need to increase health promotion activities through campaigns for eliminating the misconception and considerable knowledge gaps about dengue.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards dengue prevention among primary school children with and without experience of previous dengue infection in southern Thailand

To develop more effective intervention strategies against dengue, it is necessary to identify determinants of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), which may be influenced by the dengue experiences of the population at risk. The aim of this study was to assess and compare KAP regarding dengue prevention between Thai primary school children with and without experiences of dengue. A cross-sectional study was conducted among children between ages 8 and 13, attending the 50 public primary schools in Kanchanadit district, between October and November 2019. A 32-item questionnaire was used to collect children's socio-demographic characteristics (4 items), health information (2 items), knowledge (10 items), attitudes (7 items), and practices (9 items) towards dengue prevention, which required 30 min to complete. The KAP between groups was then statistically compared, to identify possible causes of observed differences. Of 1979 children, 15.6% self-reported that they had been infected with dengue, while 84.4% had no history of the disease. Most children indicated that they obtained dengue-related information from primary school teachers (73.6%) and their parents (68.5%). No statistically significant differences in mean KAP scores were observed between children with and without dengue experiences (P > 0.05). When KAP scores were categorized as good or poor levels, based on an 80% cut-off, 12.3% of all children had good dengue-related knowledge, 41.6% had good attitudes, and 25.9% reported good preventive practices. Dengue experience was significantly and positively associated with exercising good preventive practices (odds ratio [OR] = 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03-1.75, P = 0.031). There were significant positive correlations between attitudes and practices in both children with and without dengue experiences (P < 0.001). To enhance KAP towards dengue prevention, further efforts are needed to increase routine dengue health education programs for primary school students who have and have not experienced dengue, and to improve health education programs within communities, especially to assist guardians with the dissemination of dengue literature.