Gender Based Knowledge, Attitude and Practices About Swine Flu in a Rural Indian Population.

ABSTRACT

During recent Influenza A H1N1(swine flu) outbreak the current study was undertaken to assess knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of rural population of Jammu region regarding swine flu. 270 participants were administered a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire consisting of 26 questions evaluating KAP. Overall knowledge score was 62.9%. More than 90% had heard of swine flu, knew prevalent season and had knowledge of disease symptoms. However, knowledge about preventing vaccine was low (27.7%). Overall attitude score was 79.5%. Higher number of the participants expressed willingness to seek more knowledge about disease prevention , though half of them were not satisfied with health authorities efforts. The total practice rate was 60%.Preference for nutritious diet and willingness to use tissue/handkerchief was over 80% ,but only 40% expressed willingness to use mask. On most of the parameters of KAP, there was no difference on gender basis except for swine flu treatment ,panic reaction and preference for herbal medication in females. The current study found good KAP regarding swine flu in the rural area of Jammu. However, unwillingness to use mask, dissatisfaction with health agencies and lack of knowledge about population at risk is a matter of concern.