Factors behind people’s reluctance towards dengue vector control actions in three districts in northern Peru

Abstract

Objectives. To identify factors behind a community’s reluctance to dengue vector control efforts in three districts of the Piura region in Peru. Materials and methods. Fieldwork was conducted in May 2015 in the districts of Mori, Rinconada, Llicuar, and Sullana on the northern coast of Peru. Qualitative research methods were employed to understand varying perspectives of individuals involved in the dengue issue. Techniques such as interviewing and observation were used. Interviews included open-ended, in-depth questions. Individual interviews, focus groups, and home visits of community members were performed. Results. Reluctance was based on four arguments: 1. Fumigation is ineffective; 2. Personnel intervening are untrustworthy; 3. The timing of activities is unsuitable; and 4. The larvicide used affected water quality and taste. There was clear heterogeneity in reluctant groups: community members with high economic status, residents in high-risk or “red zone” areas, families with someone working as a healthcare professional, and houses with an ill or disabled member. Conclusions. The arguments behind reluctance as well as the composition of groups reluctant to vector control during dengue outbreaks in the districts examined were heterogeneous. Control strategies must take this heterogeneity into account.