Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice toward Dengue Fever among University Students in Makkah

Abstract

Background: The incidence of dengue fever (DF) is rapidly increasing globally.A large number of university students are at a high risk for DF.Nowadays, DF is considered as one of the most important vector-borne diseases in terms of mortality and morbidity. The primary prevention of DF is one of the most important priorities because of the continuous increases in the number of cases globally.

Objective: To assess level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAPs) about DF among university students in Makkah City, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed and was conducted at Makkah universities during the educational year 2021/2022. A multistage stratified random sample method with a proportional allocation technique was used in the study. Ten universities were randomly selected in Makkah to evaluate KAPs of students about DF. A total of 362 questionnaires were completed.

Results: This study showed that knowledge about DF was deficient; 60%of the students obtained poor, 47.7 had poor attitude and 64 had poor practice.

Conclusion: KAP toward DF was deficient among target populations. They are needed to raise the awareness and to translate knowledge into sound practice within all universities in Makkah City.