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ROLE OF KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEIVED VULNERABILITY IN PERCIEVED CONTROLLABILITY OF ZIKA VIRUS AMONG CUSTOMS OFFICERS

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The Zika virus has emerged as a formidable global health threat, captivating international attention due to its potential to cause severe health complications, particularly among pregnant women and their offspring. As gatekeepers of international borders and ports of entry, customs officers play a crucial role in safeguarding public health by preventing the spread of infectious diseases. These front-line officers are constantly exposed to a diverse array of travelers and goods, placing them at an increased risk of encountering pathogens, including the Zika virus.

Effective disease control measures rely not only on technical expertise and resources but also on the perception and understanding of the disease among the individuals responsible for implementing preventive measures. The role of knowledge and perceived vulnerability in shaping customs officers' perceptions of the controllability of the Zika virus is a critical area of inquiry. By examining these factors, we can gain insights into how customs officers perceive their ability to manage and prevent the spread of Zika and, in turn, develop targeted strategies to strengthen preparedness and response efforts.

This paper seeks to explore the intricate relationship between knowledge, perceived vulnerability, and perceived controllability of the Zika virus among customs officers. By investigating these dimensions, we aim to identify potential gaps in awareness and areas where proactive measures could be implemented to enhance disease control effectiveness.

The first section of this study will delve into the existing literature on the Zika virus, emphasizing its mode of transmission, potential health implications, and global prevalence. We will also review previous research on the role of knowledge and perceived vulnerability in infectious disease control, drawing from related studies involving other pathogens.

Next, we will outline the conceptual framework that underpins our investigation, presenting a model that illustrates the interconnections between knowledge, perceived vulnerability, and perceived controllability of the Zika virus among customs officers. This model will serve as a guide for our data collection and analysis, aiding in the interpretation of the findings.

Subsequently, we will elucidate the methodology employed in this research, outlining the design of the mixed-methods approach, the selection criteria for the study participants, and the data collection instruments used. A comprehensive explanation of the quantitative survey and qualitative interviews will be provided to underscore the comprehensive nature of our investigation.

Following the methodology, we will present the results of our study, analyzing both the quantitative data obtained through the survey and the qualitative insights gleaned from the interviews. This section will offer a detailed examination of the relationship between knowledge, perceived vulnerability, and perceived controllability of the Zika virus among customs officers, unveiling valuable patterns and correlations.

The discussion section will critically interpret the findings, contextualizing them within the broader landscape of infectious disease control and public health measures. We will explore the implications of customs officers' knowledge and perceived vulnerability on their ability to handle potential Zika outbreaks effectively, and how this understanding can be leveraged to improve training and preparedness initiatives.

Finally, this study will conclude with a synthesis of the key insights gained and propose evidence-based recommendations to enhance the perceived controllability of the Zika virus among customs officers. By fostering a deeper understanding of

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