Abstract | OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess knowledge and attitudes toward Zika virus disease (ZVD) as well as mosquito prevention practices in Malaysia at a nationwide level. METHODS: Computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI) were conducted between June 2019 and February 2020. RESULTS: There are gaps in knowledge about the symptoms, mode of transmission, and risk of microcephaly. The mean for the Zika-related knowledge score was 5.9 (SD ± 4.4) out of a possible score of 14. The majority perceived little or no risk of getting ZVD (75.0%) and 75.5% were a little or not at all worried about ZVD. A high proportion reported the use of insect sprays or mosquito coils to prevent mosquito bites; however, a relatively lower proportion of people reported fixing mosquito netting on doors and windows, and using mosquito bed nets. The mean for the mosquito prevention practices score was 11.9 (SD ± 4.7) out of a possible score of 27. Important factors influencing mosquito prevention practices include household income, environment factors, risk perception, and Zika-related knowledge. CONCLUSION: Zika prevention measures should be targeted in priority toward residents in lower socioeconomic neighborhoods. Campaigns should focus on messages highlighting the high risk of getting dengue.
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Authors | Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Hai Yen Lee, Sazaly AbuBakar |
Journal | Disaster medicine and public health preparedness
(Disaster Med Public Health Prep)
Vol. 17
Pg. e131
(04 11 2022)
ISSN: 1938-744X [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 35400356
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Topics |
- Humans
- Zika Virus Infection
(epidemiology, prevention & control)
- Malaysia
- Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
- Dengue
- Zika Virus
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