Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Monkeypox (MPOX) Prevention and Control Among Njala University Students in Sierra Leone

Abstract

Monkeypox (Mpox), a re-emerging zoonotic disease, has become a global public health concern, with the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in 2022. In Sierra Leone, the emergence of Mpox presents a challenge to the healthcare system, especially in a post-COVID-19 context. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding Mpox among undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students at Njala University. Using a cross-sectional comparative design, data were collected from 600 students (400 UG and 200 PG) through a structured questionnaire. Results revealed that PG students’ demonstrated significantly higher knowledge and more positive attitudes towards Mpox compared to UG students. However, preventive practices such as mask-wearing and hand hygiene were suboptimal in both groups. The study identified a critical gap in health awareness among undergraduates and highlighted the need for targeted health education, curriculum integration, behaviour change strategies, and vaccination awareness campaigns. These findings underscore the importance of equipping university students’ as future leaders and professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to curb the spread of infectious diseases like Mpox within and beyond academic environments.