A qualitative investigation on the awareness level and healthcare challenges of Dengue and Japanese B encephalitis in Assam

Objectives: Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) are significant mosquito-borne viral diseases posing serious public health challenges in Assam. Both diseases caused by viruses from the Flaviviridae family share Aedes and Culex mosquitoes as their primary vectors. Karbi Anglong is one of the most affected districts in the state and country, necessitating a detailed investigation into the healthcare challenges. This study aims to determine the awareness level, availability of healthcare services, and other contributing factors to the occurrence of Dengue and JE in Karbi Anglong through a qualitative approach. Materials and Methods: For this study, a targeted sample was selected from the population, comprising various age groups, health workers, community heads, and a mixed population. Specific criteria were considered for selecting individual participants. The study employed in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions as data collection methods. A total of 135 participants took part in the interviews and discussions. Results: Several factors contributing to the disease’s propagation were highlighted by participants during interviews and discussions. These included low awareness levels, inadequate municipal roles, high population density in some selected areas, and preference for traditional approaches over medical care, socio-economic status, and the presence of migrant populations. The healthcare facilities were inadequate to handle the dengue outbreak in the years 2022–2023. Conclusion: The study identified major causes influencing the prevalence of these diseases in Karbi Anglong. Respondents also offered necessary suggestions, emphasizing that community awareness and mitigation efforts were lacking. Strengthening these efforts could help prevent the occurrence and prevalence of these diseases in the region.