String literature as an educational strategy in dengue prevention

This study aimed to analyze the messages conveyed and discussed in Cordel literature, or string leaflets, on dengue. This exploratory-descriptive documentary research, preceded by a systematic search of string leaflets, was carried out between April and May of 2010. Two of the examined leaflets addressed the theme. Three categories arose from content analysis: Getting to know dengue, including characteristics of the disease itself and its signs and symptoms; Dengue prevention, emphasizing ways to prevent mosquito dissemination and elimination; and string literature as an educational strategy, outlining how it is a viable tool for dengue prevention. String leaflets present satisfactory information content which produces a favorable alert towards counter-dengue measures, linking information to regional cultural customs.

Dengue; Literature; Health promotion; Primary prevention