Monkey Pox an Emerging Zoonosis: Awareness among the University Faculty Members, Rawalpindi

Abstract

Background: Rapid spread of monkey pox across countries has raised serious concerns and WHO has announced it a Public Health emergency of international concern. It is essential to promote educational campaigns to bridge gaps in understanding this emerging zoonosis. The objective was to evaluate knowledge and awareness level regarding monkey pox among faculty members of Public Sector University.

Methodology Cross-sectional study was conducted on 70 faculty members in Dec 2022-Aug 2023. Close-ended questionnaire was used by convenience sampling, socio-demographics were recorded along with evaluation of awareness regarding monkey pox epidemiology, prevention and control. Twenty questions were asked, based on correct answer counts, overall knowledge and awareness level was evaluated placing in categories; poor, moderate and good. Chi-square test was used to determine association between awareness level and variables; age, education, gender, marital status using SPSS-26.

Results: Out of 70 participants; 29 (41.42%) male, 41(58.57%) females, age group 25-60 years, average 38 years, married 53 (75.71%), majority 61 (87.14%) from University surroundings. Average of overall correct answers was calculated, 45.6% answered correctly indicating “moderate” level of knowledge and awareness. No relationship was found between awareness level and age, education, gender, marital status of respondents.

Conclusion: Knowledge and awareness level of faculty members regarding monkeypox epidemiology, infection, prevention, and control was moderate and no relationship was found between awareness level and age, education, gender, marital status of respondents. Collaborative efforts by all stakeholders can play significant role in enhancing monkeypox awareness, leading to a decreased risk of disease transmission.