Public knowledge and perceptions of influenza among malaysians: an evaluation of video-based health messaging

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness. As a widespread condition, it poses a significant global health threat due to its potential to cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including fatalities. This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of influenza among the Malaysian public and assess the efficacy of a video-aided tool in disseminating information and combating misconceptions. This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2024 across 14 states in Malaysia, involving 405 respondents selected using convenience sampling. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire in two phases: prior to and following exposure to a video-based educational intervention to assess changes in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). Scores were assessed using Bloom’s cutoff point criteria, and data were analyzed using SPSS version 28.0. Analysis of the respondents’ sociodemographic data found that marital status (X2=10.891, p=0.028, Cramer’s V = 0.25), level of education (X2=34.228, p<0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.31) and age group (X2=30.056, p<0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.28) had significant associations with knowledge of influenza. The mean scores for pre- and post-video intervention of attitude were 20.07 ± 4.15 and 22.10 ± 3.39, respectively, suggesting a moderate initial level of awareness that increased following the video intervention. There was also a positive shift in perceptions’ mean scores from moderate (19.42 ± 2.70) to good (20.09 ± 2.55) following the video intervention, suggesting that the video can effectively improve participants' understanding of influenza. This study suggests that a video-based educational tool has the potential to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to influenza and its prevention. Consequently, video-based interventions should be considered to be incorporated into public health education systems and national health campaigns. Future studies using more rigorous designs, such as randomized controlled trials, are needed to establish the effectiveness of this video aid.