Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Dengue Fever among the Healthy Population of Highland and Lowland Communities in Central Nepal

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102028
• Publication Date: 2014-07-09T19:36:59Z
• Authors: Meghnath Dhimal; Krishna Kumar Aryal; Mandira Lamichhan...; Ishan Gautam; Shanker Pratap Singh; Chop Lal Bhusal; Ulrich Kuch
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study

Dengue fever (DF) is the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease in world. In this decade it has expanded to new countries and from urban rural areas. Nepal was regarded DF free until 2004. Since then dengue virus (DENV) its range even mountain regions of Nepal, major outbreaks occurred 2006 2010. However, no data on local knowledge, attitude practice (KAP) exist although such information required for prevention control measures.We conducted a community based cross-sectional survey five districts central between September 2011 February 2012. We collected socio-demographic characteristics participants their regarding using structured questionnaire. statistically compared highland lowland communities identify possible causes observed differences.Out 589 individuals interviewed, 77% had heard DF. Only 12% sample good knowledge Those living lowlands were times more likely possess than highlanders (P<0.001). Despite low levels, 83% people 37% reported practice. found significantly positive correlation among Among variables, education level an independent predictor (P<0.05), interaction sex age group predictors (P<0.05).Despite rapid expansion DENV about very low. Therefore, massive awareness programmes are urgently protect health limit further spread country.