The educational component for the prevention of Spotted Fever in São Bernardo do Campo in the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo.

Abstract

Introduction Spotted Fever is a disease transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, infected by bacteria of the genus Rickettsia. In Brazil, there is an increase in cases, lethality rates, and expansion of transmission areas. In the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo, Amblyomma aureolatum parasitizes domestic dogs in degraded areas of the Atlantic Forest. Objective The study proposes reflection on educational actions for the prevention and promotion of the disease through the study of educational materials and activities developed in São Bernardo do Campo - SP, from 2001 to 2023. Method A documentary review and narrative literature analysis were promoted, with spatial description of cases and maps of risk areas. Results In the period, 40 cases of the disease were confirmed, with 55% in men; 62.5% in young people under 20 years of age and a fatality rate of 70%. The educational materials developed in the period showed an expansion of content about the disease in an appropriate way. Conclusion the educational component was presented as an essential tool in the development and application of surveillance and control actions for this disease. However, it is necessary to plan detailed educational actions, ensuring comprehensive approaches and adequacy of materials.