P30 - Knowledge, conspiracy beliefs, scientific sentiments, and perceptions regarding mosquito-borne diseases and climatic changes among South Carolina residents.

Abstract: Mosquito-borne disease prevention and control relies on community support; however, public support for county vector-control programs has been waning nationally. Therefore, this cross-sectional survey sought to understand 1) mosquito ecology knowledge, 2) perceptions of mosquito-borne disease risk, and 3) personal alignment with conspiracy theories. From May to August 2025, we sent electronic surveys to over one million South Carolina email addresses using a third party list-serv and Qualtrics.

The aim was to address knowledge gaps and challenges posed by misinformation and conspiracy theories about mosquito-borne diseases and climate change among conservative residents in South Carolina. Participants aged 18 to 65+ were included. We also expect certain sociodemographic factors, political ideology (conservative or unsure), and lower educational attainment to be linked to a higher likelihood of believing in conspiracy theories. Finally, we expect to find geographical disparities across South Carolina, with clusters of lower knowledge in rural and underserved areas. A total of 3457 participants responded to our questionnaire. A large portion strongly disagreed with conspiracy theories such as “The government is releasing genetically modified mosquitoes to vaccinate people against their will,” 51.92% (1448/2789), and “Pharmaceutical companies create diseases transmitted by mosquitoes to sell more medications and vaccines,” 42.62% (1184/2778). Endorsement of ideas like “The government is using mosquito control programs to spy on citizens” was observed at 55.07% (1537/2791). By identifying areas where knowledge is limited and which conspiracy beliefs are more prevalent, we provide health departments and mosquito control teams with a map of where to focus efforts, what messages to deliver, and when to do so. These insights can support plain language education, foster trust with messengers, and strengthen control efforts before peak mosquito activity. If applied, the results could reduce preventable bites, lower risk of outbreaks, and make South Carolina communities safer through informed and confident decision-making.