Leptospirosis Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Town Service Workers in Kuching, Malaysia
https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.20.1.31
- Author:
Thung Senk Chung
1
;
Shaiful Bahari Ismail
2
;
Nani Draman
2
;
Zainab Mat Yudin
3
Author Information
1. Klinik Kesihatan Sungai Besi, No. 80 and 80-1, Jalan Tasik Utama 5, Medan Niaga Tasik Damai, Sg. Besi, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2. Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
3. School of Dental Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Attitude, Knowledge, Leptospirosis prevention, Practice, Town service worker
- From:Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences
2024;20(No.1):234-241
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate town service personnel’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding leptospirosis prevention and the influencing factors to its practice. Methods: A cross-sectional study was
conducted in Kuching, Malaysia, involving town service workers using a self-administered validated questionnaire
comprising sociodemographic and KAP information. The eligibility criteria included 18 years old and above and
having worked for more than six months. The KAP was determined using descriptive analysis, and associations were
identified using logistic regression analysis. Results: About 189 town service workers responded, giving a response
rate of 87.5%, and a majority of them were Bumiputera Sarawak, with a mean age of 38.6 (±11.00) years old. The
mean duration of employment was 9.3 (±6.99) years. About 88.9% had good knowledge of leptospirosis. Meanwhile, 85.2% and 79.9% had satisfactory attitudes and good practices. The knowledge on the aetiology of leptospirosis ranged from 25% to 94%. No significant association was found between the knowledge score and income with
the practice score. The attitude score (AOR 1.161; 95% CI = 1.090, 1.238; p = 0.000) and working experience (AOR
1.174; 95% CI = 1.023, 1.346; p = 0.022) were found to be significantly associated with their practice score. Conclusion: Most town service workers have good knowledge and practice regarding leptospirosis prevention. Workers
with good attitudes demonstrate good practising habits toward leptospirosis prevention. Awareness and activities
related to disease prevention should be encouraged to ensure the continuity of a positive attitude.
- Full text:11.2024my1735.pdf
