Naegleria Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Perceptions, Beliefs, Risk Factors, Management, Interventions, and...

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Public health
• Infectious diseases

Background:

• Naegleria fowleri causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in warm freshwater.
• Pakistan has limited data on N. fowleri incidence, but a 2023 outbreak highlights its emergence.
• Understanding public knowledge, attitudes, and practices is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge, attitudes, practices, risk factors, and perceptions related to N. fowleri in Pakistan.
• To explore the influence of demographic variables on knowledge and attitudes.
• To examine the role of education and occupation in shaping health behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study utilizing standardized questionnaires in rural and urban settings.
• Quantitative data collection on knowledge, attitudes, preventive measures, and other parameters.
• Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze relationships between variables.

Main Results:

• Public knowledge regarding N. fowleri and PAM is weak, correlating with poor preventive practices.
• Education significantly enhances health knowledge and attitudes.
• Demographic factors like age, family size, occupation, and residence influence knowledge and attitudes.

Conclusions:

• Interventions must address low public awareness and improve preventive practices concerning N. fowleri.
• Educational initiatives are vital for enhancing health literacy and behavior change.
• Demographic and socioeconomic factors play a complex role in shaping public health perceptions and actions.