DENGUE FEVER– AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE AMONG PEOPLE IN A DENGUE PREVALENT AREA

Dr.J. Ezhil Ramya; Dr B.Meenakshi; Dr. V.Caroline

Volume : V, Issue : II, February - 2016

DENGUE FEVER– AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE AMONG PEOPLE IN A DENGUE PREVALENT AREA

Dr. J. Ezhil Ramya, Dr B. Meenakshi, Dr. V. Caroline

Abstract :

Dengue is a disease of public health importance. This study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding dengue fever in dengue prevalent areas. A structured questionnaire was administered through a face–to–face unprompted interview to 252 people. The questionnaire had four parts– socio–demographic characteristics, awareness, knowledge and preventive practices. The study revealed that only (53.2%) were aware of dengue fever, Relatives and friends were the source of information (41.8% of those who are aware). 28.6% had good 46.8% average, and 24.6% poor knowledge. Preventive practices focused towards prevention of mosquito bites 67.5%, rather than eradication of mosquito. Based on statistical analysis it is found that males and urban population are comparatively more aware than females and rural population. Conclusion: Majority of the respondents had only average knowledge and did not adapt any preventive practices highlighting the need for dengue awareness programs.