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Level of knowledge about Zika virus infection in pregnant women from San Rafael-Esmeraldas

Abstract:

Introduction: Vector-borne diseases, including Zika, have become a serious public health problem in the tropical areas of the continent. The objective of this research was to develop intervention strategies that contribute to the reduction of risk factors that trigger the Zika virus in pregnant women who attend the Nuevo San Rafael Health Center in the city of Esmeraldas. Methodology: a cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in pregnant women who attended the aforementioned healthcare center, a questionnaire was applied to determine the level of knowledge about Zika infection. Results: a low level of knowledge about the prevention of Zika infection was evidenced, this as an effect of the lack of education programs in the population, 51% of those investigated stated that they had never participated in them, 53% did not know about basic sewage sanitation, 22% indicate there is no risk of transmission from mother to child. Conclusions: These findings show the high risk for the health of the mother and the newborn, since this infection generates neurological disorders such as microcephaly, seizures, cognitive impairment, among others. For this reason, it is necessary to carry out a series of nursing strategies that allow pregnant women to be provided with the necessary knowledge to establish actions to follow and avoid mother-child infection.