Social and environmental determinants of dengue infection risk in North Sumatera Province, Indonesia

Abstract

The incidence rate of dengue hemorrhagic fever in North Sumatera Province remains high. Socio-demographic and socio-cultural factors, as well as knowledge, attitudes, practices and environmental factors, influence incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever. For effective control measures, effort should be concentrated on the disease risk factors. The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors for dengue hemorrhagic fever incidence based on their socio-demographic and socio-cultural factors, as well as knowledge, attitudes, practices and environmental factors and to determine whether the characteristics of caregivers influence the risk of dengue hemorrhagic fever. The study was designed as a case cohort study. The total number of study recruits was 682 at a case: sub-cohort ratio of 1:1 and all subjects were selected via purposeful and systematic sampling. Data analysis was performed using simple and multiple logistic regressions with α at 5% to determine the predictors of dengue hemorrhagic fever incidence in North Sumatera Province. The results of the study revealed that history of dengue hemorrhagic fever in the family, travel history of family members, frequency of garbage disposal and source of drinking water were the determinant factors for dengue hemorrhagic fever incidence in North Sumatera Province. Moreover, education and knowledge regarding dengue achieved through the involvement of caregivers played an important role in reducing the incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Based on these findings, it is recommended to enhance health promotion regarding dengue prevention in the community.