Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Dengue among Patients Attending Urban Health Training Center in Central India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, caused 303 fatalities in India in 2022, with 233251 cases overall. In Maharashtra, 8578 cases and 27 fatalities were reported. Understanding community awareness and habits about vector-borne illnesses is crucial for effective public health education. This study analyzes dengue fever knowledge, attitude, and practice among patients visiting OPD at a tertiary hospital in Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Methods: The study was conducted at the Urban Healthcare Training Centre (UHTC) in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, from August to October 2023. The study used a pre-designed questionnaire and interviewed 200 patients visiting OPD of UHTC over two months. Data files were checked and cleaned before analysis. A modified B. G. Prasad criterion was used to determine the socio-economic status of the study population.

Results: A study of 200 respondents found that 56% identified dengue as an infectious disease, with 54.5% knowing it could lead to death. The majority 52% knew the aedes mosquito vector had stripes and that dengue is transmitted through bites (76%). Symptoms included high fever (91%) and rash (88%). 74% knew removing breeding areas could help. 89% Family members were believed to help prevent dengue, and 83.5% agreed to remove breeding sites.

Conclusion: The study participant has moderate to sufficient knowledge of Dengue Fever, but needs awareness campaigns to increase local residents' understanding. This can be achieved through expanding Information Education Communication initiatives, disseminating information on symptoms, and teaching in school and university curriculums.