Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Dengue Fever among Patients Experiencing the 2017 Outbreak in Vietnam

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of health care professionals regarding dengue fever: need for training and provision of diagnostic equipment in Togo in 2022, a cross-sectional study

Background

Health statistics on dengue are virtually non-existent, despite the fact that the virus is circulating in Togo. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of health professionals in the Kara health region.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2022 among healthcare professionals who had worked in the Kara region of northern Togo were selected using an exhaustive recruitment method. Data were collected by trained resident doctors with a face-to-face interview using a standardized, pretested questionnaire based on the WHO 2009 dengue guide. Three multivariate regression models were utilized to investigate factors associated with knowledge, attitudes and, and practices.

Results

A total of 464 respondents (37.1% female), median age 35 years, interquartile range (29-43 years) were included. Only (3.0%) of the participants had received training on dengue fever diagnosis, treatment and prevention in the last 3 years, and 10.3% had dengue rapid diagnostic tests available at their hospital. Half of the respondents (49.1%) had good knowledge of dengue fever, compared with 30.0% who had positive attitudes. Of a total of 256 professionals who had encountered a case of dengue fever in their practice, only 24 (9.4%) had appropriate practices for diagnosing and treating dengue fever. In multivariate analysis, the healthcare professionals who had taken part in ongoing training on dengue fever were more likely to have adequate dengue diagnosis and treatment practice aOR = 8.1; CI 95% = [1.7-36.0].

Conclusion

Strengthening healthcare professionals' dengue-related skills through ongoing training and the provision of dengue diagnostic tests could help improve early detection practices and management of dengue fever in Togo.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward dengue fever among the public: a cross-sectional study in the Western region of Saudi Arabia

Background

Dengue fever (DF) is a primary viral disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes, imposing a significant economic and health burden in numerous regions globally. There is a lack of studies addressing the importance of health education regarding DF in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess predictors influencing knowledge, attitude, and practices of the Western region public in Saudi Arabia related to DF.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted as an online self-administered questionnaire collected from July 2023 until August 2023, included 695 participants from the Western region residents aged ≥18 years. Data collected involved sociodemographics, participants' knowledge, attitude, and practices toward DF. We presented the descriptive data as mean ± standard deviations (SD) and medians [interquartile range (IQR)] for continuous variables, while categorical variables were presented as frequencies [percent (%)].

Results

Good participants' knowledge and attitude toward DF were observed among participants [median score 21.0 (interquartile range 16.0-24.0)] out of 35 and [median score 4.00 (interquartile range 3.00-5.00)] out of 5, respectively. Limited practices toward DF were observed among participants [median score 3.0 (interquartile range 0.00-5.00)] out of 8. Participants' knowledge and attitude were not correlated. Participants' education level and employment status predicted participant's knowledge of DF. Participants' age, monthly income, employment status and marital status predicted participants' attitude toward DF. Participants' age, marital status, education levels and income predicted participants' practices toward DF.

Conclusion

Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward DF among adults in Saudi Arabia can be predicted by specific sociodemographic characteristics. Implementing interferences that focus on improving public practices toward DF is imperative.

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.

Combination of Digital and Conventional Intervention for Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevention among Female Sex Workers

Background

Female sex workers (FSWs) are at a high risk of contracting sexually transmitted infection (STI). Mobile health (m-health) is one intervention that is easily accessible to everyone online and offline, allowing two-way communication through the program. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of m-health on STI prevention behavior among FSW.

Methods

The study was conducted using quasi-experimental design. It included the treatment group and the control group, each of which included fifty-four (54) FSWs selected by purposive sampling. The m-health intervention was conducted in the form of a short comedy movie on YouTube, combined with offline assertive communication training to improve skills in negotiating the use of condoms to the intervention group. Meanwhile, the control group received regular counseling from the local community health center. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the knowledge, attitudes, motivation, and behavior among the two study groups.

Results

Intervention for six months in the treatment group increased FSWs knowledge score by 4.0 (p=0.00), attitude by 3.9 (p=0.00), and motivation by 12 (p=0.00). The median knowledge, attitude, and motivation scores were 17.38 and 46, respectively. The model is effective onSTI-prevention behavior through motivational mediator variables with a p-value of 0.00. The condom consistency has the highest outer loading value in the STI-prevention behavior construct of 0.71 ≥ 0.4.

Conclusions

A combination of digital and conventional health promotion can improve STI prevention behavior by raising knowledge, attitudes, motivation, and condom consistency behavior.

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.

Molecular Characterization of Dengue Virus Strains from the 2019-2020 Epidemic in Hanoi, Vietnam

Dengue virus (DENV), which has circulated in Vietnam for several decades, has multiple serotypes and genotypes. A 2019 dengue outbreak resulted in a larger number of cases than any other outbreak. We conducted a molecular characterization using samples collected in 2019-2020 from dengue patients in Hanoi and nearby cities located in northern Vietnam. The circulating serotypes were DENV-1 (25%, n = 22) and DENV-2 (73%, n = 64). Phylogenetic analyses revealed that all DENV-1 (n = 13) were genotype I and clustered to local strains circulating during the previous outbreak in the 2017, whereas DENV-2 consisted of two genotypes: Asian-I (n = 5), related to local strains from 2006-2022, and cosmopolitan (n = 18), the predominant genotype in this epidemic. The current cosmopolitan virus was identified as having an Asian-Pacific lineage. The virus was closely related to strains in other recent outbreaks in Southeast Asian countries and China. Multiple introductions occurred in 2016-2017, which were possibly from maritime Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia), mainland Southeast Asia (Cambodia and Thailand), or China, rather than from an expansion of localized Vietnamese cosmopolitan strains that were previously detected in the 2000s. We also analyzed the genetic relationship between Vietnam's cosmopolitan strain and recent global strains reported from Asia, Oceania, Africa, and South America. This analysis revealed that viruses of Asian-Pacific lineage are not restricted to Asia but have spread to Peru and Brazil in South America.

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.

Epidemiology of dengue reported in the World Health Organization's Western Pacific Region, 2013-2019

The global burden of dengue, an emerging and re-emerging mosquito-borne disease, increased during the 20-year period ending in 2019, with approximately 70% of cases estimated to have been in Asia. This report describes the epidemiology of dengue in the World Health Organization's Western Pacific Region during 2013-2019 using regional surveillance data reported from indicator-based surveillance systems from countries and areas in the Region, supplemented by publicly available dengue outbreak situation reports. The total reported annual number of dengue cases in the Region increased from 430 023 in 2013 to 1 050 285 in 2019, surpassing 1 million cases for the first time in 2019. The reported case-fatality ratio ranged from 0.19% (724/376 972 in 2014 and 2030/1 050 285 in 2019) to 0.30% (1380/458 843 in 2016). The introduction or reintroduction of serotypes to specific areas caused several outbreaks and rare occurrences of local transmission in places where dengue was not previously reported. This report reinforces the increased importance of dengue surveillance systems in monitoring dengue across the Region.

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.

Understanding dengue solution and larval indices surveillance system among village health volunteers in high- and low-risk dengue villages in southern Thailand

Background

Successful dengue solutions require community collaboration between agencies engaged in human health, vector control and the environment. In Thailand, village health volunteers emphasize the need for a health working group to interact, collaborate, and coordinate actions. The objectives of this study were to acquire an understanding of dengue solutions, as well as the larval indices surveillance system of village health volunteers in high- and low-risk dengue villages.

Methods

After 12 months of training in dengue prevention and setting larval indices surveillance systems, an analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted. A total of 117 villages were included in the 18 primary care facilities within one district in southern Thailand, and they were divided into 71 high-risk and 46 low-risk dengue villages. Sample size was determined using the G*power formula. The content validity index and reliability values of Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the questionnaires were 0.91 and 0.83, respectively. A random sampling approach was used to acquire data. The chi-square test, t-test, and odds ratio were used to assess the sample's level of understanding.

Results

The study included 1302 village health volunteers, including 895 and 407 from high- and low-risk dengue communities, respectively. In total, 87.9% were female, 51.6% were 20-35 years old, 48.8% had worked as a village health volunteer for 11-20 years, 27.1% had an upper elementary education, and 59.1% had dengue in the previous 12 months. Understanding of the dengue solution and larval indices surveillance system varied across high- and low-risk dengue villages. Village health volunteers with a high level of understanding of the dengue solution and larval indies surveillance system were 1.064 and 1.504 times more likely to stay in high-risk dengue villages, respectively (odds ratio [OR] = 1.064, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.798-1.419, p = 0.672 and OR = 1.504, 95% CI:1.044-2.167, p = 0.028).

Conclusions

Village health volunteers require ongoing training to understand the prevention and control of dengue and larval indices surveillance systems, promote awareness, and monitor dengue in both high- and low-risk dengue villages.

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.

Do health risk perceptions motivate water - and health-related behaviour? A systematic literature review

Health-related risk perceptions are important determinants of health behaviours and components of behaviour change theories. What someone thinks or feels will motivate or hinder their intention or hesitancy to implement a certain behaviour. Thus, a perceived potential risk to our health and well-being can influence our health-promoting and/or health-seeking behaviour. We aimed to review and synthesize available peer-reviewed literature to better understand the links between water and health-related risk perceptions and behaviours. We conducted the first systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on risk perceptions and behaviours in the context of water and health, published between 2000 and 2021. A total of 187 publications met the inclusion criteria. We extracted data relating to study characteristics and categorized our results according to the major themes emerging from the literature, namely drinking water, sanitation, hygiene and wasterelated topics, health risk factors, diseases and mental health implications, and preventative measures. Our review shows that the literature has grown over the past twenty years, reporting information from different countries belonging to different income groups around the globe, conducted in various settings and contexts, among different target populations, from various disciplinary angles, using different methods, theories and approaches. Our review provides evidence of health risk perceptions determining behaviour particularly related to drinking water sources and water safety. Evidence on disease prevention, health seeking, variations and changes in perception and behaviour over space, geography, socioeconomic differences and time, and the relevance of cultural context is provided. Our review shows that risk perception studies are vital for WASH governance in terms of policy, raising awareness, education and behaviour change. In order to make risk perception and behaviour studies even more relevant to effective public health planning and health messaging, future research needs to increasingly focus on early culturally sensitive interventions and changes in perceptions and behaviours over time.

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.

Community Knowledge and Attitudes about the Transmission of Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever and Its Relationship to Prevention Behaviour in Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia

BACKGROUND: PSN 3 M Plus is a long-running program in Indonesia for the prevention and control of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). AIM: This study aimed to determine the knowledge, behavior, attitudes, and beliefs of the community toward PSN 3 M Plus in preventing and controlling the spread of DHF. METHODS: A cluster random sampling method was used to recruit 200 respondents in endemic areas and 100 respondents in sporadic locations of Indonesia from August 2020 to February 2021. The respondents were interviewed directly by interviewers and the relationships between demographics and characteristics with the practice of PSN 3M Plus prevention behavior on the incidence of DHF were analyzed. RESULTS: Most respondents had good knowledge regarding the cause of DHF. Although respondents recognized and understood the dangers of and how to control DHF, most did not follow PSN 3 M Plus and believed that fogging was the most effective control measure. There was a significant relationship between the characteristics of the respondents in terms of education, occupation, and attitude on vector control practice. CONCLUSION: Although community environmental modifications can be a cost-effective approach to reduce the incidence of DHF, there is a need to raise public awareness regarding preventive vector control measures as good knowledge does not guarantee good compliance with PSN 3M Plus recommendations.

A study on knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding dengue fever, its prevention and management among dengue patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) has ranked dengue as one of the top ten threats to Global health in 2019. Sri Lanka faced a massive dengue epidemic in 2017, the largest outbreak in the country during the last three decades, consisting of 186,101 reported cases, and over 320 deaths. The epidemic was controlled by intense measures taken by the health sector. However, the reported dengue cases and dengue deaths in 2019 were significantly higher than that of 2018. Deaths were mostly due to delay in hospitalization of severe dengue patients. The mortality of dengue hemorrhagic fever is 2–5% if detected early and treated promptly, but is high as 20% if left untreated.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was done among patients with dengue fever presenting to the Sri Jayawardenepura General Hospital during October 2019. Data was collected using a questionnaire comprising 20 questions based on knowledge, attitudes and practices on dengue, which were categorized into questions on awareness of mortality and severity of dengue burden, prevention of dengue vector mosquito breeding and acquiring the infection, patient’s role in dengue management, and warning signs requiring prompt hospitalization.

Results

The mean KAP score on all questions was 55%, while a majority of 65.2% patients scored moderate KAP scores (50–75%) on all questions, and only 7.6% had high KAP scores (> 75%). The highest categorical mean score of 62% was on awareness of dengue prevention, followed by 54% on awareness of dengue burden, and only 51% on dengue management. Only 5.3% patients scored high scores on awareness of dengue management, followed by 28.5%, and 40.9% patients scoring high scores on awareness of dengue burden, and awareness of prevention of dengue respectively. The mean KAP scores on all questions increased with increasing age category.

Conclusion

The population relatively has a better awareness of dengue prevention, as compared to awareness of dengue mortality and dengue management. The identified weak point is patient awareness of the patients’ role in dengue management, and identifying warning signs requiring prompt hospitalization. This results in delay in treatment, which is a major cause for increased mortality. There was a correlation between those who had good knowledge on dengue burden and those who were aware of patients’ role in dengue management. An action plan should be implemented to improve public awareness through education programs on the role of the public and patients in dengue management to drive a better outcome.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06685-5.

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.

Molecular and Haematological Analysis of Dengue Virus-3 Among Children in Lahore, Pakistan

Background: Dengue virus (DENV) is an RNA virus belonging to the family Flaviviridae of the genus Flavivirus with worldwide distribution. Dengue fever is caused by any of four closely-related serotypes DENV, an emerging pandemic-prone viral disease in many regions of the world. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of dengue virus genotypes and serotypes in children aged below 15 years in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: In this study, 112 serum samples were collected from clinically suspected dengue fever patients from March 2017 to December 2018 at different tertiary care hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. Regarding the patients’ age, the samples were divided into four groups from A to D (i.e., 0 - 1, 1 - 5, 5 - 10, and 10 - 15 years of age). Rapid immuno-chromatography (ICT) test was conducted on the collected serum samples, followed by quantitative RT-PCR for serotype of dengue virus. Results: Out of 112 samples, 34 samples were diagnosed as DENV positive by the rapid ICT screening method. No virus was detected in groups A and B, while three samples were positive in group C (1 boy and two girls), and 31 samples (23 boys and 8 girls) were positive in group D. The results of quantitative RT-PCR exclusively showed DEN-3 serotype in all the ICT positive samples. The results indicated that the prevalence of DEN-3 serotype in children was 100%, indicating that DEN-3 serotype might cause severe epidemics in the future in Lahore, Pakistan. Hematological analysis revealed an increase in hematocrits in 41.1% dengue-positive cases. Leucopenia was prominent in 79.4% of the cases, while Thrombocytopenia was reported in 70.5% of the participants. The biochemical analysis also indicated an increase in liver enzymes in patients (ALT 88%, AST 79%), while the lower levels of cholesterol (69 %) and serum albumin (25%) were also observed. Conclusions: Dengue virus spreads and grows quickly worldwide over a highly short time interval. Dengue fever claims for a significant number of lives. This study would help individuals know about the status of laboratory parameters in dengue fever and detect how to overcome the prevalence of Dengue virus.

Different Domains of Dengue Research in Malaysia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Questionnaire-Based Studies

This review provided a systematic overview of the questionnaire-related dengue studies conducted in Malaysia and evaluated their reliability and validity used in the questionnaires. An extensive literature search was conducted using various electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, and ScienceDirect. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) were selected as the preferred item reporting method. Out of 88 identified dengue-related, 57 published from 2000 to April 2020 met the inclusion criteria and were included. Based on the meta-analysis, a poor mean score was obtained for knowledge (49%), attitude (44%), and preventive practice (55%). The study showed that the level of knowledge on cardinal signs and modes of transmission for dengue virus were highest among health care workers, followed by students (international and local) and lastly community residents. In treatment-seeking behaviours, only half of the respondents (50.8%) would send their child to the nearest health clinics or hospitals when a child became restless or lethargic. The acceptance rate for dengue vaccine, bacteria (Wolbachia), as a vector for dengue control and self-test diagnostic kit for dengue showed considerably high (88.4%, 70%, and 44.8%, respectively). Health belief model (HBM) constructs, such as perceived barriers, perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, self-efficacy, and perceived benefit influence prevention practices. Lastly, only 23 articles (40.3%) had piloted or pretested the questionnaire before surveying, in which three reported Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.70-0.90). A need for active participation of communities and healthcare personnel, promotion of awareness, and safe complementary medicines, as well as assessment of psychometric properties of questionnaire use in dengue surveys in Malaysia, in order for assessing dengue reliably and valid.

Risk factors of dengue fever in an urban area in Vietnam: a case-control study

Background

Dengue is a mosquito-borne flavivirus present in many metropolitan cities of tropical countries.

Methods

During and after the dengue season (September 2018 to January 2019), we conducted a case-control study in order to determine the risk factors for dengue fever in Hanoi city, Vietnam. 98 dengue patients and 99 patients with other acute infections, such as Hepatitis B virus infection, were recruited at Department of Infectious Disease of Bach Mai national hospital in Hanoi. Patients were interviewed using a structured questionnaire covering demographic, housing, environmental factors and knowledge, attitude, and practice on dengue prevention and control. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine the risk factors of dengue status.

Results

The mean score of knowledge items and practice items was only 7.9 out of total 19 points and 3.9 out of total 17 points, respectively. While the mean score of attitude items was 4.8 out of total 6 points. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that older patients had lesser risk of getting dengue infection as compared to younger adults aged 16–30, and patients living in peri-urban districts were less likely to suffer of dengue fever than patients living in central urban districts (OR = 0.31; 95% CI 0.13–0.75). This study could not find any association with occupation, water storage habit, knowledge, attitude, or practice on dengue prevention.

Conclusions

All patients had a relatively low level of knowledge and practice on dengue prevention and control. However, the attitude of the participants was good. We found that age group and living district were the risk factors correlated with the dengue status. Communication programs on raising dengue awareness should be repeated all year round and target particular groups of adolescents, younger adults, landlords and migrants from other provinces to improve their knowledge and encourage them to implement preventive measures against dengue fever.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10687-y.

Knowledge and practice on prevention of mosquito-borne diseases in livestock-keeping and non-livestock-keeping communities in Hanoi city, Vietnam: A mixed-method study

Mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) are causing high morbidity and mortality for humans. Urban livestock keeping is still common in cities around the world. The animals may serve as reservoirs for zoonotic MBDs, which increase the risks for humans. Here we assess the knowledge and practices related to MBDs in households with livestock and without livestock and explore the perceptions of the health care sector about MBDs and livestock keeping in Hanoi city of Vietnam in a cross-sectional study. A quantitative survey was conducted including 513 households with and without livestock-keeping in six districts and complemented with qualitative surveys with four health staff from Hanoi Center of Disease Control and three district health centers. The quantitative survey indicated that the participants possessed basic knowledge on MBDs with an average score of 18.3 out of 35, of which non-livestock-keeping households had a better knowledge than households keeping livestock (p<0.05). Both household categories had low score, 3.5 out of 11, regarding preventive practices against MBDs. The negative binomial model showed that occupation and location of living were factors associated to the knowledge on MBDs. Farmers were likely to have better preventive practices as compared to office workers (p<0.05). Those who had better knowledge also had more adequate preventive practices against MBDs (p<0.001). The qualitative survey revealed that livestock keeping was determined as increasing risks of MBDs due to the increase of mosquito population. It is recommended that community campaigns to raise the awareness and change behavior on MBDs should be organized based on collaboration between the health sector and the veterinary sector for households with and without livestock living in central urban and peri-urban areas. Further studies are needed to confirm the association between urban livestock keeping and potential increasing risks of MBDs such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis.

Knowledge, attitude and prevention practices of garment factory workers regarding the largest Dengue outbreak on record in Bangladesh

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and prevention practices (KAP) among the garment factory worker population in Bangladesh regarding a historical dengue outbreak in 2019. A total of 400 participants were selected by simple random sampling, and questionnaire-based interviews were conducted. The average score of knowledge, attitude and prevention practice was 8.33 ± 2.35, 6.32 ± 1.20 and 6.31 ± 1.50, respectively. Only 76 out of 400 participants (19%) scored above 10 (all university-educated). Participant workers reported both negative and positive attitudes regarding dengue fever (DF). Negative attitudes included an expectation of increased mortality and strained family finances from DF attacks. A significantly high number of participants (92%) believed that death from DF was inevitable. Positive attitudes included optimism about DF eradication potentials and eagerness to help and donate blood to sick relatives. Participants primarily learned about the DF prevention from mass media (244/400; 61.0%) and social media (97/400; 24.25%). The most popular prevention measures adopted were mosquito repellent incense (344/400; 86.0%) and mosquito nets (389/400; 97.25%). While most participants (358/400; 89.5%) cleaned areas where mosquitos lay eggs, only 169 out of 400 (42.25%) regularly treated with chemical sprays. Only 182 out of 400 (45.5%) reported receiving DF prevention training in the factory. Correlation between DF knowledge and education was statistically significant (r = .38, p < .01, n = 398). Correlation between DF knowledge and work experience was insignificant (r = .01, p > .01, n = 398). Age and DF knowledge were not correlated (r = 0.07, p > .01, n = 398). In conclusion, gaps in KAP for dengue could be addressed by government-sponsored educational programmes that utilize the power of mass/social media for dengue prevention and control. More KAP surveillance studies are needed for other sectors of the society.

Knowledge, attitude and practices about dengue fever among adults living in Pwani Region, Tanzania in 2019

BACKGROUND

Dengue fever (DF) is currently widespread in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Among the triggers of epidemic include urbanization and internal migrations. Within the past few years, there have been DF outbreaks in Tanzania. Although Pwani region is among the predicted risk areas for the DF, there is insufficient data about people's knowledge, attitude and practices towards prevention of DF in their settings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude and practices about DF among adults in Pwani region in Tanzania.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study conducted in Mkuranga District, Pwani region in Tanzania. We used face-to-face interviews to collect data. The main analytical procedure was descriptive using frequencies.

RESULTS

The majority, 97.7%, were aware of DF. Nevertheless, almost 80% had a low knowledge on symptoms, transmission and vector control measures. Furthermore, less than 20% had positive attitude towards dengue fever prevention, severity of the illness and health seeking behavior.

CONCLUSION

Lack of enough knowledge and positive attitude about disease transmission, symptoms and preventive measures put the population at high risk of contracting the disease. There is need to create and improve friendly, correct and simple information, education and education messages for the rural populations.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of the Vietnamese as Key Factors in Controlling COVID-19

This study aimed to describe knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in controlling COVID-19 and some related factors among the Vietnamese population in 2020. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1999 participants aged 18–59 years old, through an online questionnaire. The results showed that 92.2% of the participants had a high knowledge level regarding COVID-19 prevention measures, 68.6% had a positive attitude toward COVID-19 prevention measures, and 75.8% practiced all six measures for preventing the spread of the virus. Age, sex, marital status, knowledge, and fear were significantly associated with the practices aimed at COVID-19 prevention. Married people and participants with high levels of knowledge were more likely to practice all preventive measures. In contrast, young people, men, and those who fear COVID-19 were less likely to practice all preventative measures. Good KAP among Vietnamese people could be an important factor in helping authorities gain initial success in containing the coronavirus and COVID-19. In addition to continuously raising and maintaining the community's awareness, attitude, and practices in disease prevention, the introduction and strict implementation of sanctions and regulations were also important in ensuring good practices were implemented and sustained over time. Groups with lower KAP levels should be provided with more information and support to promote appropriate disease prevention practices.

First Full-Length Genome Sequence of Dengue Virus Serotype 2 Circulating in Vietnam in 2017

INTRODUCTION

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is caused by four serotypes of dengue viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. In Vietnam, dengue outbreaks occur every year, and all four serotypes have been found circulating with the dominant one varying over time. However, in 2017 an unusual dengue fever outbreak occurred in the North of Vietnam, predominantly caused by DENV1 (92%) and DENV2 (7.3%). The objective of the present study was to obtain and characterize the full-length genome sequence of seven DENV2 strains in 2017 epidemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Whole-genome sequencing of seven DENV2 isolates from the 2017 outbreak were obtained using the Illumina MiSeq next generation sequencer system. Complete genome sequences were then analyzed to find out genetic variants and genetic relationships between these DENV2 with other strains that circulated in Vietnam previously and other regions of the world.

RESULTS

The complete genome sequence of seven DENV2 isolates in the 2017 dengue outbreak comprised 10,696 nucleotides with an open reading frame coding for 3392 amino acids. The genome analysis showed only a small number of amino acid changes which were obtained in all genes, in which a few amino acids substitutions were distributed over the positions such as G156 (NS1), V106 (NS2A), and L258/T260 (NS5). The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the DENV2 isolates in the 2017 outbreak were most closely related to the dengue virus from India in 2006, suggesting that the causative virus originated from the DENV2 that caused dengue hemorrhagic fever in 2006 in India.

CONCLUSION

The first complete genome sequences of seven DENV2 isolates in the 2017 dengue outbreak in Northern Vietnam were successfully obtained. The genetic and phylogenetic data indicated that these DENV2 isolates were not causative virus circulating in Vietnam previously but originated from India in 2006. These data are emerging and providing valuable information for the management and surveillance of dengue in Vietnam.

Predominant secondary dengue infection among Vietnamese adults mostly without warning signs and severe disease

BACKGROUND

The morbidity in dengue fever is dependent on the dengue virus (DENV) serotypes, the patient age, predisposing immunogenic markers and the frequency of primary and secondary infections. This study aims to distinguish acute primary from secondary dengue infections of Vietnamese adults and to assess the association of viremia and anti-dengue immunoglobulin levels with clinical outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Viral RNA, dengue serotypes and levels of anti-dengue IgM and IgG of hospitalized adult cases were determined in EDTA-plasma samples prospectively collected during three consecutive years of dengue infection in Hanoi. Patients admitted to hospital within 7 days of their 1st reported fever were included. Primary infections were anti-dengue IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) negative on both day of hospital entry (day 0) and day two or three of hospitalization (day 2 or 3) with a positive anti-dengue IgM on either day 0 or day 2 or 3 hospitalization. The secondary infections were anti-dengue IgG ELISA positive on both day 0 and day 2 or 3 with positive anti-dengue IgM ELISA on either day 0 or day 2 or 3.

RESULTS

The hospitalized dengue fever cases between October 2016 and March 2019 were predominantly secondary infections (74%, 68% and 77%, respectively) with DENV-1 (60% and 65%) and DENV-2 (22% and 26%) serotypes determined in the latter two years. The viremia in primary infection was significantly higher than that in secondary infection (P < 0.01) and positively correlated with the days of hospital stay. In secondary infections, platelet counts were lower than in primary infections (P = 0.04) and IgG levels in secondary infection negatively correlated with platelet counts (Spearman's r = -0.22, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate high rates of secondary infection with DENV1 and DENV2 serotypes. Anti-dengue immunoglobulins negatively correlate with hospital stay and platelet counts with few warning signs or severe disease. Further investigations of specific antibodies in adults which predict auto-inflammatory activity after the recovery from dengue infection are warranted.

Knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue prevention and dengue seroprevalence in a dengue hotspot in Malaysia: A cross-sectional study

Dengue has become a global public health problem. Despite reactive efforts by the government in Malaysia, the dengue cases are on the increase. Adequate knowledge, positive attitude and correct practice for dengue control are essential to stamp out the disease. Hence, this study aims to assess the factors associated with dengue knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP), as well as the association with dengue IgM and IgG seropositivity. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in a closed, dengue endemic area with multi-storey dwellings . Five hundred individuals (aged 18 years and above) were approached for pre-tested KAP and seroprevalences assessment. The study showed only half of the total participants have good knowledge (50.7%) but they had insufficient knowledge about dengue during pregnancy. 53.2% of people had poor attitude and 50.2% reported poor practice for dengue control. Out of 85 respondents who agreed to participate in the dengue seroprevalence study, 74.1% (n = 63) were positive for dengue IgG and 7.1% (n = 6) were positive for dengue IgM. Among all sociodemographic variable, race is the only independent predicator for all KAP levels (P < 0.05). In conclusion, proactive and sustainable efforts are needed to bring a behavioural change among communities in order to fight dengue outbreaks in endemic areas.

Whole genome sequencing and genetic variations in several dengue virus type 1 strains from unusual dengue epidemic of 2017 in Vietnam

Background

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is an acute viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes. In the 2017, a dengue epidemic occurred in Hanoi in a short time interval and many cases were serious with associated mortality. This was the largest and unusual dengue fever outbreak in the North of Vietnam over the past 20 years. The objective of the present study was to understand the genetic characteristics of the DENV-1 strain in the 2017 epidemic and its relationship with previous viruses in Vietnam and the rest of the world.

Methods

Complete genomes of 72 DENV-1 from patients in the 2017 epidemic were sequenced using NGS. The full genome sequences were then analyzed to find out the genetic variants in the groups of 72 strains, followed by their comparison with other strains that caused disease in Vietnam previously and several other regions of the world, revealing a genetic relationship between them.

Results

The complete genome sequence of 72 DENV-1 strains comprised 10,697 nucleotides with an open reading frame coding for 3392 amino acids. The genomic analysis revealed different amino acid substitutions in all genes, especially varying at position S75 (Capsid), M125 (PrM), D54 (E), T147, V180 (NS1), G45, Y126, I154 (NS2A), A94 (NS2B), M298 (NS3), K47, V68 (NS4A), I29 (NS4B), and R166, E536, G614, T821 (NS5). The genetic analysis suggested that the viruses were most closely related to the causative virus of the dengue outbreak in Vietnam and Cambodia from 2006 to 2008. These results indicated that DENV-1 from the dengue epidemic 2017 in Northern Vietnam originated from the virus that caused the dengue outbreak during the 2007 to 2008 period in Vietnam.

Conclusion

The present study is the first of its kind to describe complete genome sequence as well as genetic variants and phylogenetic analysis of DENV-1 associated with the unusual dengue epidemic of 2017 in northern Vietnam. These results provide detailed evidence to elucidate the origin, circulation, and genetic evolution of DENV in Vietnam.