Abstract
Background
The surveillance of Chagas disease (CD) based on public participation is carried out through the detection and notification of insects suspected of being vectors of CD to Triatomine Information Posts (TIPs).
Objective
To understand the ideas and conceptions of residents in rural areas of the municipalities of the Micro-region of Health de Itaúna (MHI) regarding aspects related to CD, its vectors, and health services.
Method
In 2016, four focus groups were conducted in the municipalities of MHI. These focus groups were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the content analysis technique. In this process, units of analysis, both within each focus group and between them, were identified and categorized.
Results
It was found that some residents have a good understanding of the nature of CD transmission and of the morphological characteristics and habits of the vectors, in addition to an understanding of the forwarding of the vector to TIPs, and the diagnosis of CD. Reports of the absence of education and health interventions related to CD were also found.
Conclusion
Understanding the conceptions and ideas about CD of populations in endemic areas is fundamental to developing future strategies involving public participation.
Keywords:
health education; public participation; entomological surveillance; triatomines