Perceptions of medical practitioners and the general public regarding the timing and impact of the acute respiratory disease season in Gauteng Province

Climatic and non-climatic factors influence the seasonality of acute upper respiratory diseases. Changes in climatic conditions can shift the acute upper respiratory disease season globally and locally. However, the broad and specific knowledge levels of medical practitioners and the public on disease seasonality in Gauteng Province have not been explored. This affects medical preparedness and public behaviour during the season. The complex interplay between behaviours and attitudes in response to the timing of acute upper respiratory disease season can be deduced, aiding in addressing gaps that exist. This study investigates perceptions of medical practitioners and the public on the timing and impact of the acute upper respiratory disease season in Gauteng Province. To determine the perceived seasonal dates, we evaluate secondary questionnaire responses from both sample groups and investigate the perceived links between climate and seasonality. The perceived season spans March to September each year, with temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind and sunshine hours considered influential climatic variables. These perceptions align with broader seasonality determined by the Distribution Lag Non-Linear Model, historical newspaper reporting, and hospital and medical claims data. Disease mitigation strategies include non-pharmaceutical interventions and vaccines, ̶-which were the least preferred due to vaccine hesitancy. We highlight the need for targeted interventions including climate-sensitive policies, targeted vaccination rollouts and education programmes, and continued research in other provinces.