Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Vector-borne Diseases in Western Jamaica

Authors

Wilson M. Alobuia Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
Celestin Missikpode Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
Maung Aung Epidemiology Unit Western Regional Health Authority, Montego Bay, Jamaica, West Indies
Pauline E. Jolly Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aogh.2015.08.013

Keywords:

dengue, Jamaica, KAP, malaria, vector-borne diseases

Abstract

Background

Outbreaks of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) such as dengue and malaria can overwhelm health systems in resource-poor countries. Environmental management strategies that reduce or eliminate vector breeding sites combined with improved personal prevention strategies can help to significantly reduce transmission of these infections.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of residents in western Jamaica regarding control of mosquito vectors and protection from mosquito bites.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and August 2010 among patients or family members of patients waiting to be seen at hospitals in western Jamaica. Participants completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic factors and KAPs regarding VBDs. KAP scores were calculated and categorized as high or low based on the number of correct or positive responses. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors of KAP and linear regression analysis conducted to determine if knowledge and attitude scores predicted practice scores.

Findings

In all, 361 (85 men and 276 women) people participated in the study. Most participants (87%) scored low on knowledge and practice items (78%). Conversely, 78% scored high on attitude items. By multivariate logistic regression, housewives were 82% less likely than laborers to have high attitude scores; homeowners were 65% less likely than renters to have high attitude scores. Participants from households with 1 to 2 children were 3.4 times more likely to have high attitude scores compared with those from households with no children. Participants from households with at least 5 people were 65% less likely than those from households with fewer than 5 people to have high practice scores. By multivariable linear regression knowledge and attitude scores were significant predictors of practice score.

Conclusion

The study revealed poor knowledge of VBDs and poor prevention practices among participants. It identified specific groups that can be targeted with vector control and personal protection interventions to decrease transmission of the infections.

Author Biographies

Wilson M. Alobuia, Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

BS
Celestin Missikpode, Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

MD, MPH
Maung Aung, Epidemiology Unit Western Regional Health Authority, Montego Bay, Jamaica, West Indies

MBBS, MPH
Pauline E. Jolly, Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

PhD, MPH

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Published

2016-03-29

Issue

Vol. 81 No. 5 (2015)

Section

Original Research

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