A seroprevalence and KAP survey of dengue fever in Grenada - abstract

ABSTRACT

Dengue is endemic in Grenada and is grossly underreported and underestimated as a source of morbidity. Seroprevalence and knowledge, attitude and practice surveys were conducted in the area of Mount Tout/Grand Anse Valley in the parish of St George's. Many people were knowledgeable about the basics of dengue fever and mosquitoes, but knowledge of the important relationship between mosquitoes, human behaviour and disease transmission was absent. Results indicated that though most respondents (98 percent) reported never having dengue fever before, 93 percent had a positive IgG-ELISA test, indicating past exposure. This suggests that, although most people have basic knowledge of dengue, more education on the disease and vectors is required. Education and modified behavioural responses may help to reduce Ae. aegypti numbers and in turn help to prevent dengue fever and the most severe form, dengue hemorrhagic fever. (AU)