Life Under the Buzz: Uncovering the Lived Experiences of Residents in Mosquito-Prone Communities
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue continue to pose major health risks in tropical communities where residents live in constant exposure to mosquitoes. This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of individuals living in this mosquito-prone area and identify the preventive measures and solutions they use to cope with health risks and daily discomfort. Using a phenomenological research design, seven purposively selected participants were interviewed through semi-structured, one-on-one interviews guided by a validated protocol. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s (2008) approach. Findings revealed five major themes: (1) Living with Constant Vigilance, (2) Bearing Emotional and Physical Weight, (3) Hoping for Better, Together, (4) everyday Protective Actions, and (5) Community and Environment Efforts. The study concludes that addressing mosquito-borne health risks requires both empowering individual protective strategies and supporting broader community and policy-level interventions. It recommends future multi-site or longitudinal studies and stronger collaboration between barangay leaders and academic institutions to co-develop sustainable, low-cost solutions tailored to community realities.
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