Knowledge and Adherence to 3M Plus Dengue Prevention Practices: A Cross-Sectional Study in Rural Indonesia
Keywords:
Dengue, 3M Plus, Community Knowledge, Preventive Behavior, Rural PopulationAbstract
Introduction: Dengue remains a major public health challenge in tropical and subtropical regions, with persistent transmission despite ongoing vector control efforts. In Indonesia, the 3M Plus strategy constitutes the core national approach to dengue prevention and relies heavily on sustained community participation. Knowledge is considered a key determinant of preventive behavior; however, evidence examining its association with structured prevention strategies in rural settings remains limited.
Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the association between community knowledge and adherence to 3M Plus dengue prevention practices in a rural population.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 43 respondents selected using total sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire measuring dengue-related knowledge and 3M Plus practices. Knowledge and practice levels were categorized as poor and good based on predetermined scoring criteria. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test with a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results: Of the respondents, 58.1% demonstrated good knowledge and 58.1% reported good 3M Plus practices. A statistically significant association was found between knowledge level and 3M Plus implementation (χ² = 7.84; p = 0.005). Respondents with good knowledge were more likely to implement appropriate preventive measures compared to those with poor knowledge.
Conclusion: This study found a significant association between community knowledge and the implementation of 3M Plus dengue prevention practices in a rural population. Individuals with better knowledge were more likely to adhere to recommended preventive measures. Strengthening community-based health education and behavioral interventions is essential to improve sustainable dengue prevention efforts
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