Conocimiento sobre las medidas de prevención del virus de influenza en los usuarios que asisten a la consulta externa del hospital IESS Ceibos en 2023.

Abstract

Influenza, or the flu, is a viral respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, which can cause fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, muscle aches and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory complications. The research on Knowledge about influenza virus prevention measures in users who attend the outpatient clinic of the IESS Ceibos hospital in 2023 was carried out through a descriptive study applying a quantitative approach that consisted of the collection, analysis and presentation of data in numerical form on the sociodemographic variables (age, gender and educational level), clinical manifestations, influenza symptoms and complications caused by the virus. The information was collected through a series of questions in a sample of 189 people to evaluate the level of knowledge and practices of the users. The results indicated that the majority of the study participants are young people between 25 and 30 years old, with a greater female presence and university education. The knowledge prevails that coughing or sneezing are the main means of contagion of influenza, followed by fever. Older adults and people with pre-existing illnesses are identified as the groups most vulnerable to complications from influenza, and there is a significant perception that the flu can be deadly. Concluding that the people who were part of the study show knowledge about the preventive measures of the influenza virus, although it is suggested to strengthen education and knowledge about the preventive measures of the influenza virus, to improve effectiveness in preventing the disease.