Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Monkeypox Virus among Students of a University in Karachi Metropolis

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to gather information regarding the knowledge and attitude of students at Hamdard University about this disease.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hamdard University, Karachi, after obtaining ethi- cal approval from the Ethical Committee of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard University, Karachi Campus. A total of 403 valid responses were included in the study. The sample size was calculated using Raosoft software using the standard formula of sample size calculation which was calculated to be 365. Data was collected from October to December 2023 for three months at Hamdard Univer- sity. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-20. The chi-square test was applied due to the non-normal distribution of the data. The response rate was less than 50%. Data was considered significant when p < 0.05.

Results: A total of 403 student’s data is included in the study. The results showed that 62% of partici- pants had good knowledge about the disease and 70% showed a positive attitude. Data strongly de- pended on gender ( 2 = 3.9, p < 0.05 knowledge; ?2 = 6.78, p < 0.01 attitude) with female predominance. Type of profession ( 2 = 4.53, p < 0.05 knowledge; ?2 = 9.5, p < 0.01 attitude) where students of health-related professions showed better knowledge and positive attitude com- pared to students of the non-medic profession. Participants showed worry about the disease and were significantly willing to get vaccinated if provided ( ?2 = 10.83, p < 0.05)

Conclusion: This study concludes that there is a gap in awareness and health facilities among uni- versity students along with inadequate budget allocation. This study stresses that awareness regard- ing infectious disease should be encouraged and a sound health policy should be formulated to overcome any emergency infectious disease burden.