The COMBI Approach in Managing Dengue Cases in an Urban Residential Area, Nilai, Malaysia

Authors

  • Rozita Hod Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

Keywords:

Dengue - Survey - Aedes spp. - COMBI approach.

Abstract

Introduction

Dengue is a disease propagated by vectors namely Aedes spp. mosquitoes. One of the effective approaches to control dengue is through integrated vector management and intervention programs. COMBI or Communication for Behavioral Impact is a strategic approach to control the Aedes population as well as dengue cases.

Methods

This study was conducted at Taman Desa Kolej, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, an suburban residential area to determine the effectiveness of COMBI, by using questionnaire and entomological survey as well as implementation of an intervention program. We carried out activities such as the establishment of COMBI promoter team, clean up events, talk shows with the residential community and distributed pamphlets containing information about dengue.

Results

Results indicated significant difference (p<0.05) on the knowledge, opinion and practices about dengue among the residents, for the pre and post intervention program. The entomological survey showed that, the primary mosquito species in this area was Aedes albopictus which comprised of 78 (31%) of the total mosquitoes examined, followed by Culex gelidus of 58 (23%), Culex quinquefasciatus of 37 (14.7%) and Aedes aegypti of 21 (8.3%). The density of Aedes population did not show any significant difference.

Conclusions

In conclusion, COMBI intervention was effective in controlling dengue cases in Taman Desa Kolej.

 

References

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Published

2013-09-01

How to Cite

Hod, R. (2013). The COMBI Approach in Managing Dengue Cases in an Urban Residential Area, Nilai, Malaysia. International Journal of Public Health Research, 3(2), 347–352. Retrieved from https://spaj.ukm.my/ijphr/index.php/ijphr/article/view/174