Approach to knowledge, attitudes, and practice of in leishmaniasis a focus of the Colombian Caribbean

Introduction: Leishmaniasis is a zoonosis with a great impact in Colombia due to the high number of cases occurring annually, which makes it a public health problem. Objective: To explore health knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to leishmaniasis in the municipality of Ovejas, located in the Colombian Caribbean, where the disease is endemic. Method: Epidemiological surveys were carried out on 63 people to assess their knowledge about leishmaniasis, its vector, insect control practices, and community perceptions. Results: 81% of those surveyed knew about cutaneous leishmaniasis and 76,2% about visceral leishmaniasis. Only 20,6% exhibited knowledge about the vector, and approximately 54% of individuals adopted measures to prevent insect bites, with fumigation being the primary method. Notably, 85,7% of participants attributed the responsibility for leishmaniasis control to health authorities, whereas 46% considered it a community concern. Conclusions: It is concluded that although the community is aware of leishmaniasis, they do not know the vector and do not implement measures to control it, due in part to the lack of knowledge, and the perception they have about the disease control responsibility.