Health seeking behavior for influenza management in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia

Aim. This study aimed to identify health-seeking behavior for influenza management in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Material and methods. This study used a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach. The number of participants in this study was 385, and the sample was taken using convenience sampling. Data was collected using a questionnaire in June 2024 and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results. The results of this study found that the first action when experiencing influenza is to seek treatment from a health professional (49.6%), self-medication (44.7%), rest (3.6%), and visit a traditional healer (2.1%). In the second action, if the first action is considered unsuccessful, the respondent seeks treatment from another health professional (82.3%) and self-medication (17.7%). Demographic characteristics that were significantly related to self-medication included age, education levels, and health insurance. Conclusions. Many people still self-medicate when they experience influenza. To avoid the negative impact of self-medication, the public needs to be socialized so that they have adequate knowledge about the risks of self-medication. Thus, they can decide to seek medical care for influenza treatment.