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Level of knowledge regarding influenza a (H1N1) 2009

Abstract:

Objective Descriptive research was conducted for determining the level of knowledge (LK) held by people from Iribarren in the state of Lara, Venezuela, regarding influenza A (H1N1) 2009. Methods The population consisted of 1,800 people. The sample of 665 people was divided into groups: group 1 consisted of 300 high-school students, group 2 of 141 elementary school teachers, administrative personnel and white-collar workers and group 3 consisted of 224 people from the local community. A questionnaire containing questions about influenza A (H1N1)-2009, its mode of transmission prevention and control was applied. Results The results showed that participants' mean age was 25.19±13.88; 54.4% were male. 73.3% reported "fair" LK. When analyzing LK mode of transmission, 66.8% reported "deficient" LK. A statistically significant difference was observed between LK and the groups being studied. The Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test revealed a statistically significant difference between the groups being studied and average LK value. Conclusions The study's findings confirmed that influenza A (H1N1)-2009 diffusion strategies should be reinforced. Health authorities' prevention and control measures should also be continued to reduce disease transmission risk.