Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Towards Dengue Fever Infection among Patients Attending Health Facilities in Lagos and Osun States, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Dengue fever (DF) is the fastest-spreading mosquito-borne disease, with 390 million infections, 96 million symptomatic cases, and 21,000 deaths worldwide annually. However, most cases occur in developing and impoverished nations with weak disease surveillance. Despite its global impact, there is a lack of information on local knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of DF in Nigeria, hindering prevention and control efforts. Understanding KAP is crucial for effective disease management. This knowledge gap highlights the need for research on DF awareness and practices in Nigeria to inform public health strategies and reduce the disease burden. Methods: We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional survey in five hospital facilities in Lagos and Osun States from June 2017 to December 2023. Using a structured questionnaire, we collected information on the socio-demographic characteristics of the 306 participants and their knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding DF. Results were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and Epi-Info version 7.0. Result: This survey on dengue fever (DF) found that 35.9% of respondents were aware of the disease, but only (13.9%) knew it was caused by the Aedes mosquito’s transmission of the dengue virus. Most (94.8%) were unaware of blood/needlestick transmission. Few believed it could spread through direct touch (7.8%), sexual activity (0.6%), or blood transfusions (7.2%). Many (80.1%) were unsure when dengue mosquitoes were active. However, 48% identified stagnant water as a breeding habitat, and 29.7% and 32.0% recognized the effectiveness of insect repellent and plant trimming to reduce the population of mosquito and dengue virus. Knowledge gaps existed regarding drinking water (10.5%), rest (9.8%), and treatment (16.0%). Only (7.2%) were vaccinated against yellow fever. Conclusion: Despite the existence of DENV in Nigeria, people’s knowledge of DF is very low. Therefore, massive awareness programs are urgently required to protect people’s health from DF and limit its further spread in this country.