Development of Village Health Volunteers' Participation Model for Emerging Infectious Disease Prevention and Control in Thai-Lao Border Area, Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

Background and Aims: The Thai-Lao border areas face increased risks of emerging infectious disease transmission due to frequent cross-border population movements. Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) play a crucial role in community disease surveillance and prevention. This research aimed to (1) study the current situation of VHVs' participation in emerging infectious disease prevention and control in Thai-Lao border areas, (2) analyze factors affecting VHVs' participation, and (3) develop an appropriate participation model for the border context.

Methodology: This survey research employed 357 VHVs in Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai Province as samples, selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires comprising three sections: demographic information, participation levels in prevention and control activities, and open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, including t-test and One-way ANOVA.

Results: VHVs' overall participation in emerging infectious disease prevention and control was at a moderate level (mean 3.12). High participation was found in temperature screening (89.90%), community forum attendance (95.02%), and disease prevention campaigns (80.60%), while low participation was observed in decision-making (20.20% never participated), knowledge provision evaluation (23.50% never participated), and financial or material donation (14.30% never participated). Age was a significant factor affecting participation (F=8.25, p<0.001), with VHVs over 50 years old showing higher participation levels than other groups, especially in implementation and evaluation activities.

Conclusion: The appropriate participation model for VHVs in emerging infectious disease prevention and control should emphasize: (1) developing VHVs' capacity in disease situation analysis, planning, and evaluation; (2) creating knowledge exchange forums between VHVs, community leaders, and health personnel; (3) establishing community disease surveillance teams with VHVs as core components; (4) developing suitable monitoring tools; and (5) creating driving mechanisms with mentorship systems where older, experienced VHVs support younger members. These findings can be applied to develop policies and guidelines for promoting VHVs' participation in border areas, strengthening disease surveillance systems, and improving community health security.