Keywords
awareness
diseases
risk perception
Mpox
Abstract
Background: Community awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward health-related concerns strongly influence public health outcomes in Sierra Leone. During the Ebola outbreak (2014–2016), misinformation and lack of understanding worsened the crisis, and similar challenges have been seen with COVID-19 and Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS). With Mpox cases rising in neighboring countries and increased human–animal interactions, community knowledge is crucial for prevention and outbreak control.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perception, and attitudes of the general public toward Mpox infection in Sierra Leone.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional design integrating quantitative and qualitative methods was used. Data were collected from 540 participants across five districts. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Pack-age for the Social Science (SPSS) version 20, with binary logistic regression applied to test associations, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.
Results: Among the respondents, 74.6% were aware of Mpox, though only 35% correctly identified its transmission routes. About 80% reported health agencies as their primary source of information. Awareness and positive attitudes were higher among younger adults and males compared to older participants and females. Higher education and healthcare training were associated with better knowledge levels. Qualitative findings revealed persistent confusion about symptoms and highlighted stigma, fear, and misinformation, particularly among rural populations, sex workers, and youth, which hindered open discussion.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of inclusive, community-driven awareness strategies. Engaging religious leaders, chiefs, and elders in sensitization efforts is essential to counter misinformation, reduce stigma, and enhance Mpox prevention in Sierra Leone.