Submission ID 131695
| Issue/Objective | Dengue is not merely an epidemiological problem; it also reflects underlying structural inequalities. In Bangladesh, recurring dengue epidemics since 2019 have disproportionately affected low- and middle-income urban populations living in conditions of rapid urbanization with limited access to water and sanitation. In this context, children under 12 are at increased risk of severe dengue. Despite this, dominant control strategies are often top-down and tend to overlook the local knowledge and lived experiences of the most affected communities. This study aims to generate insights into dengue prevention and control by examining the knowledge, perceptions, and experiences of parents of children affected by dengue in vulnerable urban settings. |
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| Methodology/Approach | We present the qualitative component of a mixed-methods study. In the first phase, in December 2023, we administered a questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to dengue; these findings informed the design of the qualitative phase. In 2025, we then conducted seven focus group discussions to explore these results in greater depth. In these groups, we met separately with 42 mothers and fathers of dengue-affected children aged 2 to 12 years living in an informal settlement and three low-income neighborhoods in Dhaka. Discussions were moderated in Bengali by a local research assistant. Data were analyzed thematically using a reflective approach, guided by the CASCADA behavior change framework. Preliminary findings were shared with participants to solicit their feedback, allowing refinement of analytical categories and interpretations. |
| Results | Participants highlighted that: 1) Preventive practices were strongly influenced by perceived risk, which often intensified following a dengue case within the family. 2) Motivation to adopt preventive measures was rooted primarily at the household level and extended to the broader community. 3) Local knowledge and treatment practices reflected a pluralistic approach, drawing on family networks, pharmacies, and healthcare services. 4) Participants in neighborhoods with limited dengue prevention activities expressed a clear demand for greater engagement and accountability from local authorities. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | These findings offer important insights for co-designing dengue control strategies with affected communities, highlighting parents' experiences and priorities in vulnerable urban settings. Integrating community knowledge into decision-making processes can enhance the legitimacy, acceptability, and effectiveness of interventions and support more equitable and contextually relevant dengue control strategies. |
| Presenters and Affiliations | Claudia Robayo Gonzalez École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal Muriel Mac-Seing École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal Khadija Tull Khushbu Jahangirnagar University Jasim Uddim Jahangirnagar University Malay Kanti Mridha BRAC University Bouchra Nasri École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal Kate Zinszer École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal |
