"The Women Have a Story to Tell" Dengue, Social and Environmental Vulnerability in a Periferical District of Fortaleza, Brazil

Abstract

In the last decades, the incidence of dengue virus has grown dramatically, mostly in those tropical areas characterized by rapid unplanned urbanization. Dengue prevention solely depends on effective vector control measures, therefore it is crucial to make a connection between the contagion and the everyday dengue control practices. This paper investigates the impact of the dengue virus in a marginalized district of Fortaleza (Brazil).Beyond the behavioral approach, the aim of this study is to assess to what extent local women are able to face the spread of the disease, considering the real possibilities of protecting themselves from contracting the virus, and to point out the role of the local context in influencing their health choices and their perception of risk.