ABSTRACT
Background: Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a flavivirus causing viral encephalitis in many countries of Asia with an estimated 68,000 clinical cases every year. Due to the occurrence of recent outbreak of Japanese encephalitis in the state, this study was taken up to determine the level of knowledge and preventive practices of mosquito borne diseases and also to determine the factors associated with the level of knowledge. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study done among the adults (18 years & above) living in selected villages in Imphal East District from 11 th August 2016 to 7 th September 2016. Villages were sampled randomly using probability proportionate to size. Oral questionnaire was developed to collect information through interview schedule. Questions related to knowledge were given scores and summated (0-12). Results: Around half (48.1%) of the respondents could name two mosquito borne diseases correctly whereas only 0.4% of them could name four diseases correctly. Seventy five percent knew about involvement of any domestic animals in the transmission of JE. The participants came to know of mosquito borne disease from mostly radio (68.3%) and some from internet/social media (4%). Maximum responded use of mosquito coil as personal protective measures. Respondents have no knowledge about larvicidal fish/oil to control the breeding place of mosquitoes. Conclusion: Males, Christians, students and salaried govt employee have higher level of knowledge of mosquito borne disease. Higher the level of literacy more is the level of knowledge about mosquito borne disease.