Research Article
Assessment of Knowledge, Perception and Practice Toward Lassa Fever Prevention Among Residents of Akure South Local Government, Ondo State
Ebenezer Obi Daniel*
,
Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale,
Ahmed Mamuda Bello,
Michael Olabode Tomori,
Michael Avwerhota,
Israel Olukayode Popoola,
Adebanke Adetutu Ogun,
Aisha Oluwakemi Salami,
Olukayode Oladeji Alewi,
Taiwo Aderemi Popoola,
Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
26-34
Received:
1 June 2024
Accepted:
20 June 2024
Published:
26 June 2024
Abstract: Lassa fever is an extremely virulent and highly infectious disease endemic in West Africa, including Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices against Lassa fever among adult residents of Akure South Local Government in Ondo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design was utilized, with data collected from adults in the LGA during a recent outbreak. The study involved systematic random sampling of approximately 300 adults, with data collected via pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaires. The study employed a multi-stage sampling technique and used a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution tables, simple percentages, and bar charts. The findings indicated that only 33.6% of respondents had good knowledge of Lassa fever, while 54.3% practiced good food and environmental hygiene. Most respondents were female, highly literate, and predominantly Yoruba. Despite high awareness, misconceptions about Lassa fever's origin and nature persisted, with many believing it was discovered in Congo or considering it a chronic disease. Effective prevention practices such as proper food storage were acknowledged, aligning with recommendations to avoid contact with Mastomys rodents and maintain cleanliness to prevent rodent infestations. The study concluded that there is a need for improved risk communication, ongoing sensitization, and specific educational campaigns to enhance understanding and preventive behaviors regarding Lassa fever. Further research is recommended to expand these findings across Ondo State and compare risk perceptions in affected and unaffected communities.
Abstract: Lassa fever is an extremely virulent and highly infectious disease endemic in West Africa, including Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices against Lassa fever among adult residents of Akure South Local Government in Ondo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design was utilized, with data collected...
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Research Article
Preparedness Among Senior JKUAT Nursing Students in Managing COVID-19 Patients
Gift Mwenda*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
35-39
Received:
17 November 2023
Accepted:
18 December 2023
Published:
6 August 2024
Abstract: The negative effects and the impact of pandemic diseases continues to grow enormously. The study aimed to find out the preparedness among senior JKUAT nursing students in managing COVID-19 patients. The purpose of the study was to determine knowledge, attitude and risk perception among senior nursing students at JKUAT in the management of COVID-19 patients. The study used a cross-sectional study design and sampling technique was used to collect data among number of students using online questionnaires. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for the social sciences version 20 and presented using frequency tables, pie charts, numerical and narratives as appropriate. Out of the total participants, 74.6% of the students were willing to volunteer in a pandemic management center and 98.6% had the knowledge on how infectious diseases are transmitted, frequent ways of transmission and prevention/minimizing the spread of infection. Nursing students are valuable resources in the health sectors and are highly willing to volunteer during the COVID-19 pandemic and are prepared to manage the affected patients. The study recommends that emergency preparedness should be integrated into the nursing curricula and other health science programs and also recommends the ministry of health to provide incentives to the volunteers as well as insurance cover in case one is infected in the line of duty.
Abstract: The negative effects and the impact of pandemic diseases continues to grow enormously. The study aimed to find out the preparedness among senior JKUAT nursing students in managing COVID-19 patients. The purpose of the study was to determine knowledge, attitude and risk perception among senior nursing students at JKUAT in the management of COVID-19 ...
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