Factors associated to populations’ behaviour towards cholera in Cotonou (Benin)

Abstract

A disease related to hygiene, cholera is an affection which rages for centuries in the endemic states with epidemic hatchings worldwide. Benin, in particular in its littoral region, is not spared by the disease. The objective of this study was to determine the behavioural factors of the bad hygiene practice of the populations from Vossa-Kpodji in Cotonou towards the cholera. The study was cross-sectional, descriptive and with an analytical aim. A questionnaire was administered to all adults of 18 years and older. An individual was considered as having bad practices when his/her score was less than 14 points according to the present criteria. Of the 408 respondents, 91.4% had bad hygiene practices. The socio-demographic variable associated with poor practices, was marital status (p = 0.04). The proportion of subjects with bad practices was higher among single (97.3%). The level of knowledge of hygiene was significantly related to hygiene practices (p = 0.03). Latrine coverage was low (36.8%) and strongly linked to bad hygiene practices (p < 0.0001). The Ministry of Health should assist people for the achievement and perpetuation of public and household latrines and develop a sanitary program that takes into account peripheral areas of Cotonou.

Keywords: Associated factors, hygiene, cholera, Benin.