Knowledge, behaviour change, and anticipated compliance regarding non-pharmaceutical interventions during pandemic of influenza A H1N1 in Delhi

CONTEXT: Compliance for non-pharmaceutical interventions for containment of Influenza A H1N1 is determined by community understanding and accurate information by appropriate risk commu-nication strategy. AIMS: To assess the baseline awareness of public regarding Influenza A H1N1 and its existing risk communication strategy; and to assess public expressed willingness to comply with containment measures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sample of 300 subjects (>18 years) coming to primary health centre (PHC) in Delhi was interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was collected from 1(st) July to 1(st) Sept 2009 by systematic random sampling. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Chi-square test and binary logistic regression. RESULTS: Only 66 (22%) individuals had complete knowledge about the spread, symptoms, risk groups, and method of prevention for Influenza A H1N1 infection. Knowledge was significantly higher among males and literates. Only 45 (15%) individuals thought that information given by government on H1N1 is complete and understandable. CONCLUSIONS: Majority of the respondents were willing to comply with containment measures, if implied by government. It was significantly high among literates.