Urban community engagement through “student-led science” for dengue prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic in Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract

Abstract Traditional mosquito vector control methods, such as insecticide applications, have proved ineffective in controlling the spread of dengue fever. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of community engagement through student-led science assignments in promoting dengue fever prevention and socio-ecological factors in the temperate urban city of Córdoba, Argentina. This study assesses community perceptions, knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices regarding dengue fever and its vector. It was cross-sectional, conducted during the COVID-19 quarantine, when schools switched to online education, serving as a basis for further research. The results showed a significant increase in knowledge about the vector and disease and the adoption of good preventive practices by the respondents. The findings underscore the importance of community engagement as a means of modifying the behavior of individuals and the community. Student-led science was identified as a useful tool in reaching households and leading to a change in attitudes in the home. Furthermore, the results highlighted the need for school programs with curricula that address vector biology and the prevention of vector-borne diseases throughout the year. The study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of community engagement through student-led science assignments in promoting dengue fever prevention and socio-ecological factors. The findings suggest that this approach could be used as a strategy to control the spread of dengue fever in other regions affected by the disease. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of developing sustainable and effective methods of vector control that take into account the local ecological-community context.