| Summary: | Background and Objectives: Influenza is one of the most common infectious diseases, which its pandemics has so far caused mortality and heavy losses several times in developing countries. This research aimed to determine the predictors of preventive behaviors of influenza A (H1N1) based on Health Belief Model among Jiroft people. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 individuals of Jiroft city in 2016. Samples were selected using cluster sampling. Data were collected by a researcher-made questionnaire based on Health Belief Model. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression. Results: Among the preventive behaviors of H1N1, regular hand washing with water and soap (58% always, 24.2% often) and covering mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing (51% always, 27.5% often), had the highest frequency. There was a significant positive correlation between behavior and knowledge (r=0.206, p=0.001), benefits (r=0.308, p=0.001), susceptibility (r=0.130, p=0.009), and perceived severity (r=0.248, p=0.001). The Health Belief Model constructs predicted 15% of variance of preventive behaviors of H1N1 influenza, among which, perceived benefits (β=0.233) was the most powerful predictor. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed the application of Health Belief Model in prediction of H1N1 influenza preventive behaviors, although weak, thus, this model can be used, with emphasis on perceived benefits, in developing educational programs and intervention techniques to change attitudes and behaviors of people in this area.
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