Perceptions and practices of community and ward health, sanitation and nutrition committee (WHSNC) members on dengue fever and Aedes vector management in Kollam district, Kerala, India, 2023.

Abstract

Background objectives: Dengue fever incidence has tripled from 1990 to 2017, with a 107.6% increase in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). An evaluation study in Kollam district, Kerala, India found limited community involvement in vector management. This study explores the perceptions and practices of community members and ward health, sanitation and nutrition committee (WHSNC) members regarding vector management in high-incidence areas of dengue in Kollam district, Kerala, India.

Methods: We conducted a mixed-method study from December 2022 to May 2023, featuring a community survey for residents and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders. We assessed community knowledge, attitudes, and practices with a structured questionnaire, and summarized the results as proportions. We also interviewed 18 members of the WHSNC about dengue control and vector management.

Results: Among 450 participants, 262 (58%) had moderate knowledge of dengue and its vector management, 122 (27.1%) had poor knowledge, and 66 (14.7%) had good knowledge. The majority, 440 participants (97.8%), showed a positive attitude toward dengue control, while only 10 (2.2%) had a negative attitude. Only 187 of 427 participants (25.5%) reported eliminating mosquito breeding sites at home. The qualitative study highlighted perceived barriers and strengths in the community mobilization efforts of the WHSNC for dengue control.

Interpretation conclusion: Awareness about dengue and its prevention methods is relatively high, but this has not led to commensurate preventive actions, despite positive attitudes among community members. The research highlights the need for improved community capacity through focused social and behavioural change communication.