Community knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding mosquito-borne diseases in rural Uttar Pradesh, India

Mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and filariasis pose a significant public health threat in India, especially in regions like Uttar Pradesh. Despite national programs, community participation and preventive practices remain inadequate. The study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) related to mosquito-borne diseases among the study population; examine the association between sociodemographic factors (education, age, occupation, housing type) and KAP levels; and evaluate the relationship between knowledge levels and observed or self-reported mosquito-preventive practices.

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adult participants, selected through two-stage random sampling from 300 households (one participant per household) across six villages in Raebareli district, Uttar Pradesh. Data were gathered using structured questionnaire and direct observations. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression analyses were performed using Jamovi software.

The study found high illiteracy (34%) and unskilled occupation rates (65%) among the study population. Poor knowledge, attitude, and practices were reported in 53.3%, 12%, and 41.7% of respondents, respectively. Significant associations were found between education, age, occupation, and housing type with KAP components (p < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that education up to 10th or 12th grade significantly predicted better knowledge (AOR: 2.38, 2.48). Older age was linked to improved attitude and practices. Knowledge was significantly associated with observed waste disposal behavior (p < 0.001) but not with self-reported practices.

Higher education and older age were strong predictors of improved KAP. Targeted health education interventions and community-based vector control strategies are needed in rural Uttar Pradesh.