KNOWLEDGE AND PUBLIC AWARENESS OF MPOX SPREAD IN OSUN STATE COMMUNITIES (A CASE STUDY OF NIGERIA CENTRE FOR DISEASE CONTROL PREVENTION)

KNOWLEDGE AND PUBLIC AWARENESS OF MPOX SPREAD IN OSUN STATE COMMUNITIES (A CASE STUDY OF NIGERIA CENTRE FOR DISEASE CONTROL PREVENTION)

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the Mpox virus, which primarily affects animals but can also be transmitted to humans. Recent outbreaks have heightened global attention, particularly in regions where the disease was previously rare. In Nigeria, Mpox has presented a growing public health challenge, prompting increased efforts by organizations like the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to manage and prevent its spread (NCDC, 2022; Ojo & Oladele, 2021).

Mpox is characterized by symptoms similar to those of smallpox, including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or humans, or via contaminated materials. Public health initiatives aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness about Mpox are critical for effective disease management and prevention (Ademola & Abdulazeez, 2022).

Public awareness plays a crucial role in controlling the spread of infectious diseases. Knowledge about the symptoms, transmission, and prevention methods of Mpox can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks and improve community response to potential cases (Johnson & Oluwaseun, 2021). In regions like Osun State, where there may be limited access to health education, raising awareness is essential for empowering residents to protect themselves and seek timely medical care (Ojo & Oladele, 2021).

The NCDC is responsible for coordinating public health responses to outbreaks and providing information to the public. Its efforts include disseminating information about Mpox through various channels, conducting awareness campaigns, and providing guidance on preventive measures (NCDC, 2022). Understanding the effectiveness of these efforts in Osun State can offer insights into the broader impact of public health initiatives.

Evaluating the level of public knowledge and awareness about Mpox in Osun State can help determine the effectiveness of current public health strategies and identify areas for improvement. This study aims to assess how well-informed the communities are about Mpox and how this knowledge influences their behavior and response to potential outbreaks (Ademola & Abdulazeez, 2022).

 

Statement of the Problem

Despite efforts by the NCDC to increase public awareness about Mpox, there may be gaps in knowledge and understanding among residents of Osun State. Inadequate awareness could lead to delayed responses, increased risk of transmission, and challenges in managing outbreaks effectively. There is a need to investigate the current level of knowledge and public awareness about Mpox in Osun State, as well as how this awareness affects public health outcomes (Johnson & Oluwaseun, 2021).

Previous studies have highlighted the importance of public health education but have not extensively explored its impact on Mpox awareness in specific regions like Osun State. Assessing the effectiveness of the NCDC's public awareness campaigns and identifying any knowledge gaps can provide valuable insights for improving disease prevention and control strategies (NCDC, 2022; Ojo & Oladele, 2021).

 

Objectives of the Study

To assess the level of public knowledge and awareness about Mpox in Osun State communities.

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s awareness campaigns on Mpox.

To determine the impact of public knowledge about Mpox on preventive behaviors and responses in Osun State.

 

Research Questions

What is the current level of public knowledge and awareness about Mpox in Osun State communities?

How effective are the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s awareness campaigns in increasing knowledge about Mpox?

How does the level of knowledge about Mpox influence preventive behaviors and responses in Osun State?

 

Research Hypotheses

The level of public knowledge about Mpox in Osun State communities does not significantly impact preventive behaviors.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s awareness campaigns have not significantly improved public knowledge about Mpox in Osun State.

There is no significant relationship between public awareness of Mpox and the effectiveness of disease prevention strategies in Osun State.

 

Significance of the Study

The study is significant for various stakeholders, including public health authorities, community leaders, and residents of Osun State. For the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, the study provides insights into the effectiveness of their public awareness campaigns and identifies areas for improvement. Community leaders and residents can benefit from increased awareness and better understanding of Mpox prevention strategies. Policymakers can use the findings to develop targeted educational programs and enhance public health interventions (Ademola & Abdulazeez, 2022; Johnson & Oluwaseun, 2021).

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study focuses on assessing the level of knowledge and awareness about Mpox in Osun State and evaluating the effectiveness of the NCDC’s awareness campaigns. It will involve surveys and interviews with community members and public health officials. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data, variations in access to information across different communities, and challenges in measuring the direct impact of awareness on disease prevention.

 

Definitions of Terms

Mpox: A zoonotic viral disease characterized by fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, transmitted through contact with infected animals or humans.

Public Awareness: The level of understanding and knowledge that individuals have about a particular issue, including its causes, effects, and preventive measures.

Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC): The national public health agency responsible for coordinating responses to disease outbreaks and providing health information in Nigeria.

Preventive Behaviors: Actions taken by individuals to reduce the risk of disease transmission and protect their health, such as practicing good hygiene and seeking medical care.

Awareness Campaign: A public health initiative aimed at increasing knowledge and understanding of a specific health issue through various communication channels.