Validation of a Newly Developed Health Education Module for Influenza and Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) Control among Hajj Pilgrims

Abstract

Introduction: Hajj pilgrims risk contracting influenza and influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) during the pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. To mitigate this risk, there is a need for a valid health education module to enhance the preventive behaviours of the pilgrims to control the infections. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop and validate a new health education module for preventing influenza and ILIs during Hajj.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Malaysian Hajj pilgrims participating in a weekly orientation course organized by Hajj authorities from May to June 2018. The first stage of the development of the health education module began with an extensive literature search of important items by a panel of 5 experts. The module was developed based on the Health Belief Theory (HBM). The level of awareness of the pilgrims was explored through focal group discussion and needs assessment among 50 Hajj pilgrims that consented to participate. The second stage of the validation of the health education module is content validation with a public health specialist, an epidemiologist, a virologist, and an educationist. The final stage of the face validity was conducted among 50 Hajj pilgrims to ensure the content was well understood.

Findings: The health education module was developed in English language and translated forward and backward to Malay language by a team of language experts. The needs assessments indicated that the health education content included: pre-Hajj, during Hajj, post-Hajj, and formative assessment. The module covered five topics: face mask, vaccination, cough etiquette, hand hygiene, contact avoidance and social distancing.

Discussion: The health education module was developed based on the HBM and applied a series of behaviour transformation approaches to encourage the adoption of better health behaviours.

Conclusion: The module was found to have good content validity and can be reduce the incidence of influenza and ILIs amongst Hajj pilgrims.