Knowledge and Practices about Avian Influenza in Afghanistan
Author Information
Author(s): Leslie Toby, Billaud Julie, Mofleh Jawad, Mustafa Lais, Yingst Sam
Primary Institution: Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding avian influenza (H5N1) in Afghanistan?
Conclusion
Higher socioeconomic status and exposure to information campaigns were associated with better knowledge about avian influenza.
Supporting Evidence
- Knowledge of avian influenza was low overall.
- Provinces exposed to information campaigns had higher KAP scores.
- Socioeconomic status was positively associated with KAP scores.
- Backyard poultry ownership was negatively associated with KAP scores.
- Older age groups had lower KAP scores compared to younger groups.
Takeaway
People in Afghanistan who know more about avian influenza are usually those who have more money and live in areas where they get more information about it.
Methodology
A survey was conducted using a standardized questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding avian influenza in five provinces of Afghanistan.
Potential Biases
Selection bias may underestimate the effect of socioeconomic status due to inaccessible areas likely having lower status.
Limitations
The study did not include inaccessible districts, which may have lower socioeconomic status and knowledge levels.
Participant Demographics
Median age of respondents was 38 years, with 46.8% male and varying levels of education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 5.2–39.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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