Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventing Practices Regarding Lassa Fever in Edo State: Insights from Community and Healthcare Workers

Abstract

Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness endemic in West Africa, poses significant public health challenges in Nigeria, with Edo State as one of the epicenters. Despite the recurrent outbreaks, limited data exist on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of residents and healthcare personnel in affected areas, creating a critical research gap. This study aimed to assess these dimensions in Edo State to inform targeted interventions. Using cross-sectional study design, mixed sampling technique, data was collected using a well-structured questionnaire from 1,192 residents and 180 Primary Healthcare (PHC) personnel. The questionnaire was programmed and a Survey CTO software was used in the collection of the data and analyzed using SPSS version 23. The study highlights substantial gaps in awareness and preventive behaviors. Among residents, 80.1% recognized Lassa fever as a severe illness, yet only 6.9% had participated in awareness campaigns. Preventive measures such as storing food in rodent-proof containers (12.1%) and frequent environmental sanitation (25.4%) were underutilized. Misconceptions about transmission persisted, with only 3% aware of the 1–21 days incubation period and 0.3% acknowledging sexual transmission. Socioeconomic disparities significantly influenced practices, as higher-income households reported better compliance with sanitation measures (p < 0.001). Practices like using traps (14.5%) and participating in sanitation campaigns (6.8%) varied significantly by residence type (p < 0.001). PHC personnel demonstrated strong knowledge of Lassa fever, with a high Relative Importance Index (RII = 0.960) for facts such as its classification as a viral hemorrhagic illness and the role of rats as primary reservoirs. However, only 84% identified alternative reservoirs like bats and mosquitoes. PPE adherence was notably poor, particularly for facemasks and eye protection (RII = 0.217). The study's findings underscore the necessity for targeted education, strengthened training for healthcare personnel, and equitable resource distribution to bridge the identified gaps. Addressing these issues is crucial to reducing the burden of Lassa fever in Edo State and beyond.