Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) on Dengue Fever in Burkina Faso: Findings from the national household survey in Burkina Faso

Abstract

Abstract Background Dengue fever is an emerging public health concern in Burkina Faso, with increasing outbreaks and data gaps in population awareness. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to dengue fever in all health regions of the country. Methodology/Principal Findings A nationwide cross-sectional household survey was conducted in May 2022 using a stratified two-stage cluster sampling design. One rural and one urban area were selected per region. Heads of households or their representatives were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected electronically and analyzed using Stata. A total of 1,568 participants were enrolled (52.0% male; 48.0% female). Overall, 66.3% had heard of dengue, with higher awareness in urban than rural areas. Only 49.0% correctly identified mosquito bites as the mode of transmission, and 29.9% did not know what dengue is. Most respondents (88.3%) stated that dengue can affect everyone. Regarding prevention, 80.2% reported sleeping under a mosquito net, 49.0% eliminated stagnant water, and 45.4% used mosquito repellents. In practice, 67.6% consistently slept under mosquito nets and 82.6% used repellents. Almost all respondents (98.6%) reported that they would consult a health professional if they had symptoms of dengue. However, knowledge about treatment and vaccination was limited, with 46.5% and 56.6% respectively reporting not knowing whether drugs or vaccines exist. Conclusions/Significance This study highlights moderate awareness but substantial knowledge gaps and urban–rural disparities in dengue-related KAP in Burkina Faso. Strengthening community-based education and integrated vector control strategies is essential to improve prevention and reduce dengue transmission. Author Summary Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that is spreading in many parts of the world, including West Africa. In Burkina Faso, outbreaks have been reported in recent years, but little is known about what communities understand about the disease or how they protect themselves. In this study, we conducted a nationwide household survey covering all health regions of the country to explore people’s knowledge, perceptions, and prevention practices related to dengue. We found that while many people had heard about dengue, important gaps remain. A significant proportion did not know how the disease is transmitted or whether treatments or vaccines exist. Preventive actions such as sleeping under mosquito nets and removing standing water were reported, but these practices were not consistent everywhere, especially between urban and rural areas. Encouragingly, almost all respondents said they would seek care from a health professional if they developed symptoms. Our work provides the first national picture of community awareness and behaviors related to dengue in Burkina Faso. These findings highlight the need for strengthened health education and community engagement to improve prevention and support ongoing efforts to control mosquito-borne diseases.