Helena J Chapman, BS, Department of Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, University of Florida, 1329 SW 16th Street, P.O. Box 100177, Gainesville, FL 32610-0177, 352-336-6113, hchapman@phhp.ufl.edu

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe the impact of Dengue Fever on the health and quality of life of citizens living in Cuba and Dominican Republic. Design: This is a cross-cultural descriptive study. Sample: A convenience sample of 62 citizens in Havana, Cuba and a purposive sample of 25 citizens in Santiago, Dominican Republic were selected. Subjects completed a 30-question survey with quantitative and qualitative questions to identify personal experiences and protective measures utilized on daily lifestyle for Dengue fever. Analysis: SAS analysis was utilized to identify descriptive statistics. Variations were found among subjects with prior exposure/subjects without prior exposure and subjects over the age of 40/subjects under the age of 40. Application of Findings: The study revealed that common personal protective measures from the urban Aedes aegypti mosquito, including topical insect repellent or light weight/light colored clothing, are often not used to avoid the mosquitoes. Cuba: A robust public community health program educated Cuban citizens on the importance to eliminate standing bodies of water, dispose of bagged trash, destroy cracked egg shells, turn bottles upside down to prevent standing water and maintain hygiene within the household. Government mandatory fumigation was practiced. Dominican Republic: Dominican citizens practiced eliminating standing bodies of water only and no Government fumigation was seen unless purchased by the individual. Both populations were aware of the Dengue viral hazards. Implications: Strong public health campaigns are successful in changing personal health behaviors in Dengue Fever.

Learning Objectives: At the completion of the presentation, the participant will be able to

• List 3 methods utilized by citizens for mosquito protection in Cuba and Dominican Republic.
• Describe the behavior changes and perception of risk for citizens in Cuba and Dominican Republic to protect themselves from mosquitoes.
• Describe the major differences in the public health campaigns in Cuba and Dominican Republic and successful strategies to promote health in the population as they relate to Dengue Fever.

Keywords: Emerging Diseases, Behavior Modification

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.