Knowledge, Attitudes, Beliefs, and Practices Regarding Dengue in La Réunion Island, France

Abstract

Since 2017, La Réunion island has been facing a major epidemic of dengue. Despite actions carried out by the anti-vector control department, public authorities have failed to contain this epidemic. As individual involvement is key to success in vector control, we carried out a mixed-methods study on population knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices (KABP) regarding dengue infection risk in La Réunion. The study combined quantitative data collected through a questionnaire administered to a representative sample of 622 people to assess the use of protective measures and the perception of severity and risk of dengue, and a sample of 336 people to assess the level of knowledge and concern about dengue, as well as qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews among 11 individuals who had previously completed the questionnaire. The study results show that 63% of the surveyed population had a good level of knowledge associated with age, education, and socio-professional category variables—78% considered dengue to be a serious threat, and concern was estimated at 6/10, while 71% were likely to use protective measures. The interviews revealed contradictory behaviors in the implementation of recommended actions, in conflict with personal beliefs regarding respect of human body and nature. The study also revealed a loss of confidence in public authorities.