Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has emerged as a global public health concern according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Given the geographical proximity of Iran to countries that have reported outbreaks of this disease in recent years, this issue needs careful attention. DESIGN AND METHODS: The present study aims to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of rural populations concerning dengue fever in Fars Province, southern Iran. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 2 months, from October to December 2024, involving 17 rural regions and encompassing a total of 653 households. The data were collected using a questionnaire designed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dengue fever. RESULTS: Of the 653 individuals participating in the study, 370 were male and 283 were female. The overall average scores, along with their standard deviations, for the rural population's knowledge (10.76 ± 2.10 out of 15), attitude (13.65 ± 2.90 out of 20), and practice (8.24 ± 1.70 out of 12) regarding dengue fever were at moderate levels. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis indicated a direct and statistically significant relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The findings revealed a substantial positive association between the participants' knowledge and their attitudes (r = 0.47, p < 0.001), as well as a strong direct relationship between knowledge and practices (r = 0.51, P<0.001). Furthermore, a notable positive correlation was observed between attitudinal variables and practical behaviors (r = 0.45, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Overall, the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the rural population regarding dengue fever were found to be moderate. Therefore, it is recommended that health system policymakers should adopt suitable approaches, such as ensuring comprehensive public health education for all, creating educational materials, and enhancing awareness campaigns. Effective strategies for mitigating and controlling the spread of dengue fever depend on public knowledge and attitude changes, along with appropriate measures for successful disease control.