# Addressing Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Toward Dengue Fever, Vector Control, and Vaccine Acceptance Among the General Population in Singapore

## TL;DR

This study explores public knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dengue fever and vaccine acceptance in Singapore, finding gaps in awareness and opportunities for improving prevention efforts.

## Contribution

The study provides novel insights into dengue vaccine acceptance and public practices in Singapore using a large-scale survey and multivariate analysis.

## Key findings

- Only 23% of respondents were aware of the availability of a dengue vaccine.
- 25% of respondents showed high willingness to vaccinate against dengue.
- Positive vaccine perceptions and past dengue experience were linked to higher vaccination willingness.

## Abstract

Dengue remains a public health concern in Singapore, with endemic transmission and recurring outbreaks. This study presents results from a Singapore-focused subgroup of the Growth and Emerging Markets Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (GEMKAP) cross-sectional survey, which assessed public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) levels related to dengue and prevention. A total of 400 adult respondents from Singapore participated in an online survey conducted between September and October 2022. Overall KAP scores were 48% (Knowledge), 61% (Attitudes), and 36% (Practices). Awareness of dengue transmission was widespread (96% identified mosquitoes as the vector and 97% recognised stagnant water breeding), while fewer respondents recognised the availability of a dengue vaccine (23%) or the absence of a medicinal cure (38%). Trust in the government’s dengue control efforts was high, though respondents practised an average of 5.1 out of 10 recommended prevention measures. Of the respondents, 25% had a high willingness to vaccinate against dengue. Multivariate analysis revealed that positive vaccine perceptions, past dengue experience, automatic motivation, and social opportunity were associated with willingness to vaccinate. Respondents supported a multi-pronged dengue management approach combining education, vector control, and vaccination. Future efforts should integrate behaviour change strategies, enhance multi-stakeholder collaboration, and empower communities to ensure sustainable impact.