Empowering Tunisians Youth to seasonal influenza: Auto medication versus empathy

Abstract

Abstract Background and aim In Tunisia, self-medication against seasonal influenza is a public health problem that mainly affects low- and middle-income social categories. For implementation of an educational intervention, this study will assess young Tunisians' literacy towards Seasonal Influenza. Health education, socio-demographic (gender and intersectionality) and media variables will be explored. Methods This is a cross-sectional study, which included Tunisian students from different educational levels and residents in different regions of the country. Results The results show that the risk perception and level literacy depend on gender, geographical proximity, media coverage and didactic choices. The fears of male students in preparatory or secondary school focus significantly more than for female school students around seasonal Influenza, respectively (21.5% vs. 10%, p < 0.05) and (25.7% vs 7.4%, p < 0.05). Among the behaviors purposed to students, to protect themselves from infectious diseases, the consumption of antibiotics! ranks second before personal hygiene (hand washing), vaccination and avoidance measures. In general, 'avoid public places' and 'avoid taking public transport' are behaviors that seem little or not adopted in case of influenza whatever the school level or the study specialty of youths. Questions were asked, moreover, on 'the acceptability of the mask wearing in family and in the public space'. Only 14% preparatory school students and 11% of secondary school students would 'totally' agree to wear it at home and away from home. Conclusions Considering the literacy level of young Tunisians towards the seasonal influenza, pandemic and MDR risks remains high. Innovative educational interventions, which combining epidemiological and ecological knowledge (social, economic, scientific, epidemiological and individual contexts), would be better adapted to new and emerging health issues and could reduce social inequalities in health. Key messages Social qualification in the face of infectious diseases. Development of capacities to perceive and manage seasonal Influenza.