Analysis on knowledge, attitude and practice to avian influenza A(H7N9)of urban residents of Wusheng, Sichuan

Objective To understand the knowledge,attitude and practice of residents to avian influenza A (H7N9)in Wusheng county of Sichuan province and their comment on the prevention and control of the disease. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted among 483 local residents selected through random cluster sampling. Results Among the residents surveyed,the awareness rate of knowledge about avian influenza A (H7N9)was 67.74%. And 50.10% of the residents showed anxiety to the avian influenza epidemic,80.12% of them feared to be infected (both themselves and family members or friends). After the epidemic,66.46% of the resident strengthened their protection,67.72% of them intentionally avoided the contact with birds,90.89% of them purchased no poultry and the related foods any more,and 86.13% of them washed hands immediately after contacting poultry. The changes in their behaviors were associated with their age and education level. Meanwhile,77.41% of the residents satisfied with the release of epidemic information by the government. Conclusion The awareness of avian influenza A (H7N9)related knowledge was high in residents in Wusheng. Some people were worried about the epidemic. It is necessary strengthen prevention and control of human infection with H7N9 virus,health education and related scientific research,and the epidemic response.