Cultural conceptions about dengue in Nayarit, Mexico

The goal of this study was to explore the conceptual dimensions of dengue in three locations in the state of Nayarit, Mexico, for the purpose of identifying community attitudes towards preventive measures. It was an exploratory cross-sectional study. The sample was 122 people selected by propositive sampling in three locations with different levels of dengue prevalence. Semi-structured interviews were applied by using free-listing techniques and pile sorts. Dengue-associated terms and conceptual dimension groupings were investigated. A consensual analysis was applied by factorizing the major components as well as a dimensional analysis with hierarchical conglomerates and multidimensional scales. The main results show the existence of structured cultural domains with abundant descriptive information about the disease coming from direct experience and socialization sources, and variables according to the population density of the localities. Nevertheless, the domains included scant preventive elements and no reference to social participation. Cultural elements should be considered when designing and disseminating dengue prevention campaigns. The campaigns should emphasize specific preventive measures and favour strategies fostering the conscious incorporation of social participation in the dengue prevention culture