Knowledge, attitudes and practices about hantavirus disease in a rural settlement of Planaltina - Distrito Federal, 2011

Abstract

We conducted a study on knowledge, attitudes and practices about hantavirus disease in a rural settlement in Planatina city, Federal District, Brazil. The survey was conducted between October and November 2011 with 158 households. We used a pre-tested questionnaire to assess the prevalence of the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding the disease. We interviewed 135 families representing 85% of residents at the time of the survey. Most respondents have heard about hantavirus disease, knows how infection occurs and the severity of the disease. Nevertheless, our results suggest that the practices to prevent infection are not being taken properly. The housing conditions, coupled with the lack of basic care cleaning suggest a potential risk of hantavirus infection at the site. The place where the infection occurs and the mechanisms of prevention of hantavirus should be further explored in educational activities to encourage the community to practice the preventive measures known.