Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices for the Prevention and Vector Control of Dengue in a Colombian Rural Population: A Mixed Method Study.

Introduction: Dengue fever is a viral disease of public health concern. Adequate knowledge and self-care practices are the most effective strategies for vector control.

Objective: To describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices for the prevention and vector control of dengue.

Methods: Mixed method study. A total of 283 residents in a Colombian rural population were studied. Relative and absolute frequency measures were used for statistical analysis of study variables; emergent categories were identified for qualitative data.

Results: 73% were women, 60% were housewives, and 37% had completed primary education. Both knowledge and attitudes presented low percentages in relation to the characteristics of the vector. Regarding practices, 76% did not have a positive disposition toward the use of mosquito nets. Participants perceived problems related to waste management, lack of education, and the presence of mosquitoes in covered water tanks.

Conclusion: The inhabitants of the surveyed population demonstrated acceptable knowledge with respect to dengue control practices; however, they neglected sources of risk in their immediate environment.