Perception and knowledge of the population about dengue fever in a municipality in Northeast of Brazil

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate knowledge, habits, and participation in educational activities on dengue among residents of the municipality of Lago do Junco, Maranhão, Brazil. Methodology: this is an observational, cross-sectional study conducted with 264 individuals over 18 years of age, randomly selected. A structured questionnaire was applied, including sociodemographic variables and questions related to the etiological agent, transmission, symptoms, treatment, prevention, and household practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test, with a significance level of 5%. Results: a total of 264 individuals were interviewed, of whom 62.1% were female, 37.0% were aged between 35 and 59 years, and 26.1% had completed high school. Most participants demonstrated satisfactory knowledge about dengue: 91.7% correctly recognized the main signs and symptoms, 80.3% adequately identified prevention methods, and 64.0% correctly indicated transmission through mosquito bites. However, 59.1% reported the presence of water-holding containers in their households, favoring vector proliferation. In addition, 54.2% reported having participated in educational activities. A statistically significant association was observed between higher education level and greater knowledge about the disease (p < 0.05). Conclusion: although the population's knowledge is satisfactory, risky household practices still persist. Therefore, it is necessary to expand and strengthen continuous educational actions, especially targeting more vulnerable groups, aiming to reduce risk behaviors and effectively control dengue in the municipality.