Critical knowledge gap in aedes peak biting activity among rural communities: Implications for dengue vector control...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical Entomology
• Health Education

Background:

• Rajasthan reported 13,924 dengue cases in 2023, highlighting the need for effective vector control strategies.
• Understanding community knowledge is vital for successful dengue prevention programs in rural areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess dengue awareness among rural patients in Rajasthan.
• To identify specific knowledge gaps to prioritize public health interventions.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method approach was used, combining structured questionnaires and qualitative interviews.
• Fifty adult outpatients from a rural health center participated in the study.
• The questionnaire covered 15 knowledge domains related to dengue.

Main Results:

• Overall dengue knowledge score was 61.8%, with critical deficits in disease identification (18%) and vector behavior (18%).
• Misconceptions about transmission (42%) and reliance on traditional remedies (70%) were prevalent.
• Despite gaps, most participants identified mosquitoes as vectors (90%) and recognized disease severity (82%).

Conclusions:

• Significant dengue knowledge deficits exist in rural Rajasthan, particularly concerning vector biting behavior and symptom recognition.
• Qualitative insights revealed cultural beliefs and misconceptions not captured by quantitative data alone.
• Culturally sensitive health education focusing on Aedes mosquito behavior is urgently needed.