Knowledge and practices on arbovirosis transmitted by Aedes aegypti in municipality of Bolívar (Colombia)

Abstract

Introduction: Vector-borne diseases (TVDs) are infections caused by pathogens; many of these are transmitted by arthropods. It is expected that people with correct knowledge about the arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti tend to carry out correct practices. There is multiple evidence in the literature that shows that even in populations with a medium or high level of knowledge about this disease, risk practices persist, and that is that the practices are related to behavior, which are governed not only by knowledge, but also by social determinants, risk factors, social or health inequities, among others. However, the situation in the municipality of Mahates is unknown.

Objective: To describe the knowledge and practices on arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti in the municipality of Mahates-Bolívar (Colombia), 2021.

Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study. Population made up of 5,385 people between the ages of 20 and 50, inhabitants of Mahates (Bolívar-Colombia). Probabilistic sample of 255 people (error: 5 %, confidence level: 95 %). A survey of knowledge and practices on arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti was applied, which also included sociodemographic aspects/variables.

Results: Knowledge and practices were regular. The practices were statistically related (p<0.05) with age and occupation; while the practices were related to the level of schooling, the type of housing and the occupation.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the participating population of the department of Bolívar does not have clear knowledge about arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti and the cycle of the vector, despite this, the population studied has a good attitude and willingness to change before the practices adopted for the control and prevention of arboviruses, as well as to follow the indications of the health personnel given at the time of implementing promotion programs.