Zika virus knowledge and attitudes in Ecuador

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Behavior

Background:

• Zika virus (ZIKV) has spread globally, with Ecuador reporting significant human and congenital syndrome cases.
• Understanding public knowledge and attitudes is crucial for effective ZIKV prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Zika virus-related knowledge and attitudes among adults in Ecuador.
• To apply the Health Belief Model (HBM) framework to understand factors influencing ZIKV prevention behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study surveyed 181 adults in rural and urban Ecuador in May 2016.
• Data collection involved 7 knowledge items and 23 attitude items based on the HBM.
• Statistical analyses examined demographic differences and HBM construct associations.

Main Results:

• Most participants (89.5%) had heard of ZIKV, but knowledge varied by demographics (gender, education, location).
• Significant differences were found in HBM constructs like 'cues to action' (gender) and 'perceived benefits' and 'perceived severity' (knowledge level).
• Males reported lower 'cues to action' than females; adequate knowledge correlated with higher perceived benefits and severity.

Conclusions:

• A clear need exists for enhanced education on ZIKV transmission and prevention in Ecuador.
• High self-efficacy for prevention coupled with low perceived barriers presents an opportunity for effective health promotion campaigns.
• Interventions should address identified knowledge deficits to improve public health outcomes regarding ZIKV.