Knowledge and practices about novel influenza A(H1N1) in health workers and ambulatory patients, Peru (may 2009)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine knowledge, attitudes and practices of patients and health personnel at the beginning of the pandemic of novel Influenza A (H1N1), we did a cross sectional survey appliying a questionnaire in health facilities of Ministry of Health (MoH). 313 patients and 244 health workers were interviewed in 4 Peruvian cities. 38% of surveyed patients linked Influenza A (H1N1) with pigs or poultry, 17% do not recognize that the transmission is from person to person, between 35% to 50% used the hand to cover nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing and does not practice hand hygiene. 99% and 86% of health personnel recognizes human transmission and knows the case definition of suspected case of Influenza A (H1N1), respectively. Between 83% and 95% of workers surveyed understand the individual protection measures recommended by the MoH. In both groups, television is the most seen (60%) and where to get more information on Influenza A (H1N1). An important way of information, through health care workers get information is internet (11%).