Abstract
Introduction
Chikungunya, a vector-borne disease transmitted by the female Aedes aegypti mosquito, has become a global health concern, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The disease, which causes fever, rash, and debilitating joint pain, reemerged in Cambodia in 2020, leading to more than 6,000 cases, indicating the risk of local transmission. This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) regarding chikungunya among the general population in Svay Rieng Province, Cambodia.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 using data from post-temephos larvicide (Abate application) supervision reports in Svay Rieng Province. A total of 274 participants aged 18 years and above were included. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize sociodemographic characteristics, whereas bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to assess factors associated with KAP toward mosquito bites and mosquito breeding prevention. The adjusted OR was calculated, and a p value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
The mean age was 45 years (SD = 15), with women accounting for 63% of the sample. Of all participants, 33.3% were aware of Chikungunya, primarily through social media and mass communication channels (TV, radio). Of these, 41.7% had good knowledge, 43.9% demonstrated a good attitude, and 42.8% practiced effective mosquito prevention methods; only 28.6% reported sleeping under a bed net in the daytime. Wearing long sleeves and using mosquito repellents are common practices. Factors associated with good knowledge included higher monthly income > $147 (AOR = 5.3, 95% CI: 1.0-24.8), self-employment (AOR = 17, 95% CI: 3.0-94.5) and residing in urban areas (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.6). Similarly, positive attitudes were independently associated with self-employment (AOR = 9.2, 95% CI: 1.8-46.2) and higher monthly income (AOR = 6.2, 95% CI: 1.2-31.2), while positive practices were associated with self-employment (AOR = 18.2, 95% CI: 3.4-96) and living in urban areas (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.1-11.9).
Conclusion
This study highlights the low level of awareness and knowledge of Chikungunya in Svay Rieng Province, with significant gaps in attitudes and practices. Public health interventions focusing on education and targeted awareness campaigns are necessary to improve KAP related to Chikungunya, especially in rural areas and among lower-income populations.