A general population KAP survey: supporting the design of interventions and tiger mosquito control efforts in response to arbovirus emergence in non-endemic areas

The Asian tiger mosquito, <i>Aedes albopictus</i>, a highly invasive species and vector of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, has rapidly spread across mainland France, including urban areas like Lyon. Local transmission of these diseases has been reported with increasing frequency, and the mosquito represents not only a major source of nuisance but also a growing public health concern. To better understand public engagement and improve vector control strategies, a large-scale Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey was conducted in the Lyon metropolitan area between September 2023 and February 2024. The survey collected 3990 responses through both field interviews and online forms. It addressed various themes, including mosquito biology, disease awareness, prevention measures and the willingness to engage in collective or scientific initiatives. Results revealed that 86 % of respondents experienced significant annoyance due to mosquitoes, affecting their quality of life. However, only 17 % expressed strong concern about disease transmission. Most participants were aware of basic mosquito behavior, such as daytime activity and common breeding sites. However, knowledge about the mosquito's physical characteristics and the full range of diseases it transmits was limited. Despite this, 78 % reported engaging in preventive measures, mainly removing stagnant water and using repellents, though many doubted the effectiveness of these actions. Statistical analysis revealed that factors such as age, education level, housing type, knowledge of mosquito biology, and perceived health risk were significantly associated with proactive behavior. These findings highlight a gap between perceived nuisance and public understanding of health risks and effective mosquito control strategies. They point to the limitations of individual action and underscore the importance of fostering collective, neighborhood-level engagement. Public awareness campaigns should shift from passive messaging to participatory, locally adapted approaches.