Knowledge and Preventive Practices on Dengue Fever among Adults in Urban and Rural Areas of Tumkur

Abstract

Dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever (DF/DHF) remain pressing public health challenges, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. With nearly half of the world’s population at risk, the disease burden is especially severe in South‑East Asia, including India, where outbreaks have become frequent in both urban and rural areas. Despite the rising incidence and mortality, there is no vaccine or specific treatment, making prevention through vector control and community awareness essential. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practices regarding dengue fever and its prevention among adults in selected urban and rural areas of Tumkur district. Using Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model as the conceptual framework, the research focused on individual perceptions, modifying factors, and likelihood of preventive actions. Objectives included evaluating knowledge levels, identifying preventive practices, comparing rural and urban differences, and exploring associations with socio‑demographic variables. Findings are intended to guide the development of an instruction module tailored to community needs, thereby enhancing awareness and promoting effective preventive behaviors. The study underscores the importance of integrating health education with vector control strategies to reduce dengue transmission and highlights the role of nurses and health professionals in empowering communities to combat this emerging viral disease.