Public Knowledge, Perception and Source of Information on Ebola Virus Disease – Lagos, Nigeria; September, 2014

Conclusions The survey surpassed mere academic exercise by providing evidenced-based information that guided the implementation of social mobilization activities and dissemination of appropriate public health information as part of the EVD response in Nigeria. We recommend development of health messages focusing on the mode of spread and preventive measures, demonstration of hand-washing techniques and social mobilization campaigns to prevent stigmatization of EVD cases and contacts. Radio and television should be used to disseminate relevant accurate health information to the public. A repeat survey should be done to monitor changes in knowledge and behavior. Finally, this survey highlights the need for real time data gathering as part of an outbreak response. Supporting Information Because outbreak of Ebola virus disease has not been previously recorded in Nigeria, there is little or no information on the level of public knowledge, perception, practices and source of information regarding the disease. This study was conducted as part of the outbreak response, to assess the level of public preparedness to adopt risk reduction behavior which is premised on appropriate knowledge and perception. The study provided information on the level of public knowledge, perception and risk reduction behavior which were previously unknown in the study area. Information obtained from the study guided the strategy and content of health communication messages during the outbreak which contr...
Source: PLOS Currents Outbreaks - Category: Epidemiology Authors: Source Type: research