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Abouzied AS, Huwaimel B, Alqarni S, Younes KM, Alshammari RE, Alshammari AH, Algharbi WF, Elkashlan AM. Sinefungin analogs targeting VP39 methyltransferase as potential anti-monkeypox therapeutics: a multi-step computational approach. Mol Divers 2025;29:561-574. [PMID: 38702561 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-024-10875-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]

Ntawuyamara E, Ingabire T, Yandemye I, Ndayikeza P, Bhandari B, Liang YH. Assessing healthcare workers’ knowledge and confidence in the diagnosis, management and prevention of Monkeypox. World J Clin Cases 2025;13:99884. [DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v13.i1.99884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 10/23/2024] [Indexed: 11/07/2024] Open

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Monkeypox (Mpox), is a disease of global public health concern, as it does not affect only countries in western and central Africa.

AIM

To assess Burundi healthcare workers (HCWs)s’ level of knowledge and confidence in the diagnosis and management of Mpox.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study via an online survey designed mainly from the World Health Organization course distributed among Burundi HCWs from June-July 2023. The questionnaire comprises 8 socioprofessional-related questions, 22 questions about Mpox disease knowledge, and 3 questions to assess confidence in Mpox diagnosis and management. The data were analyzed via SPSS software version 25.0. A P value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

RESULTS

The study sample comprised 471 HCWs who were mainly medical doctors (63.9%) and nurses (30.1%). None of the 22 questions concerning Mpox knowledge had at least 50% correct responses. A very low number of HCWs (17.4%) knew that Mpox has a vaccine. The confidence level to diagnose (21.20%), treat (18.00%) or prevent (23.30%) Mpox was low among HCWs. The confidence level in the diagnosis of Mpox was associated with the HCWs’ age (P value = 0.009), sex (P value < 0.001), work experience (P value = 0.002), and residence (P value < 0.001). The confidence level to treat Mpox was significantly associated with the HCWs’ age (P value = 0.050), sex (P value < 0.001), education (P value = 0.033) and occupation (P value = 0.005). The confidence level to prevent Mpox was associated with the HCWs’ education (P value < 0.001), work experience (P value = 0.002), residence (P value < 0.001) and type of work institution (P value = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that HCWs have the lowest level of knowledge regarding Mpox and a lack of confidence in the ability to diagnose, treat or prevent it. There is an urgent need to organize continuing medical education programs on Mpox epidemiology and preparedness for Burundi HCWs. We encourage future researchers to assess potential hesitancy toward Mpox vaccination and its associated factors.

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Zayed D, Momani S, Banat M, Al-Tammemi AB. Unveiling the first case of Mpox in Jordan 2024: A Look at the national preparedness and response measures. New Microbes New Infect 2024;62:101488. [PMID: 39381619 PMCID: PMC11460243 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2024.101488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open

Nassar RI, Ahmad A, Basheti IA, Omar AM, Barqawi HJ, Alzoubi KH, Shahwan M, Al Moukdad AM, Al Moukdad MA, Abu-Gharbieh E. Knowledge Gap or Prepared Force? Exploring United Arab Emirates Pharmacy Students and Pharmacists' Monkeypox Readiness. Healthcare (Basel) 2024;12:2295. [PMID: 39595492 PMCID: PMC11593419 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12222295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2024] [Revised: 11/01/2024] [Accepted: 11/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024] Open

Abstract

BACKGROUND

The WHO classified the mpox outbreak as a worldwide health emergency. Increasing the contribution of healthcare providers, such as pharmacists, can enhance preventive efforts. Assessing the knowledge and confidence levels of pharmacists in diagnosing and managing mpox cases can shape the response strategies necessary for the management of such outbreaks.

METHODS

This research employed a cross-sectional survey designed to assess the knowledge and preparedness of pharmacy students and pharmacists in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) regarding the mpox virus outbreak. Independent researchers evaluated the survey items to confirm the face and content validity of the developed survey. The final study's survey was structured into three distinct sections, each addressing a specific area of interest. Data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics.

RESULTS

The 388 participants had a median age of 22.00 years (IQR = 5.00). The survey revealed that participants primarily relied on the WHO reports for mpox information (79.8%). The total knowledge scores (TK score) varied, ranging from -6 to 23 (median = 6.00), and symptom knowledge scores (SK score) ranged from -3 to 9 (median = 2.00). Older participants (p-value = 0.008) and females (p-value = 0.014) exhibited significantly higher TK scores. Only about 31.0% of participants expressed confidence in diagnosing mpox cases, and 34.6% expressed confidence in managing mpox cases. Nearly a quarter of the participants (24.5%) thought that getting vaccinated against COVID-19 led to contracting mpox more likely, whereas 45.7% believed that a previous infection with COVID-19 increases the risk of having mpox and its associated symptoms. Many respondents (38.7%) expressed their concern that mpox could emerge as the next major epidemic following COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

Although pharmacists and pharmacy students in the UAE are aware of mpox, their knowledge and confidence levels in diagnosing and managing vary significantly. These findings suggest the need for targeted educational programs to enhance the understanding and preparedness of pharmacists to manage and prevent mpox cases.

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Affiliation(s)

Razan I. Nassar Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan;
Alhareth Ahmad Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan
Iman A. Basheti Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jadara University, Irbid 21110, Jordan
Amin M. Omar Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan
Hiba Jawdat Barqawi Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
Karem H. Alzoubi Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
Moyad Shahwan Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
AlMuzaffar M. Al Moukdad Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
Mays Alrim Al Moukdad Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
Eman Abu-Gharbieh Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan

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Yeshiwas AG, Temesegen A, Melkie G, Tsega TD, Mola A, Tesfa H, Shimels A, Asmamaw M, Shiferaw A, Tsegaye D, Muchie E, Tesfaye D, Yenew C. Assessing healthcare workers' confidence level in diagnosing and managing emerging infectious virus of human mpox in hospitals in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia: multicentre institution-based cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2024;14:e080791. [PMID: 38969376 PMCID: PMC11227793 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open

Abstract

OBJECTIVE

To assess healthcare workers' (HCWs) confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox disease and its associated factors in hospitals in the Amhara Region.

DESIGN

Institution-based cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Hospitals in the Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 640 HCWs, with a response rate of 96.9%, participated from 1 October to 30 December 2022. A multistage stratified random sampling technique with proportional allocation was used to recruit study participants. Data were collected using the KoboCollect toolbox and exported to STATA V.17 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to describe data. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of confidence level to diagnose and manage mpox at p<0.05.

PRIMARY OUTCOME

HCWs' confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox disease and its associated factors.

RESULTS

The overall proportion of HCWs who had high confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox disease was found to be 31.5% (95% CI: 27.9%, 35.2%). Similarly, 26.8% (95% CI: 23.2%, 30.3%) and 41.8% (95% CI: 38.1%, 45.4%) of HCWs expressed medium and low confidence level to diagnose and manage the disease, respectively. The odds of higher confidence versus lower or medium confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox were greater for HCWs who regularly visit amenable websites (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.59, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.2), were physicians (AOR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.32, 2.73), were aged 30-35 years old (AOR=1.64, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.39), had got public health emergency epidemic disease management training (AOR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.94, 4.04) and had positive attitudes (AOR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.36) compared with their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

The overall confidence level of HCWs in diagnosing and managing mpox disease in the study area was low. Therefore, the HCWs should be regularly updated about mpox disease through morning sessions and training in the diagnosis and clinical management of mpox disease including infection prevention and control.

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Alasslani HA, Alasslani TA, Alharbi WA. Awareness and Knowledge about Monkeypox Disease among General Adult Population in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia. J Family Med Prim Care 2024;13:997-1003. [PMID: 38736786 PMCID: PMC11086804 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1026_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open

Abstract

Background

Assessment of awareness and knowledge of the general population regarding Monkeypox is rarely investigated on a global level. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a lack of knowledge about monkeypox as one of the main challenges facing authorities in implementing effective preventive strategies. This study aims to assess the awareness and knowledge of the general adult population about Monkeypox disease.

Subjects and Methods

An online population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, among a snowball sample of adult persons (>18 years old). A self-administered online Arabic and English questionnaires was utilized in this study. It consists of three main parts: sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, perception towards Monkeypox disease and assessment of the knowledge about Monkeypox disease through 23 multiple-choice questions with "Yes", "No" and "don't know" responses.

Results

A total of 387 adults were included in the study. Females represented 72.6% of them. Almost two-thirds (63.8%) aged between 26 and 45 years. More than half (55.6%) of the participants believed that monkeypox will affect social and economic life like the COVID-19 pandemic while 30.7% considered Monkeypox as a conspiracy or bioterrorism. Overall, almost half (50.4%) of the participants expressed excellent level of knowledge, whereas only 4.4% had poor level of knowledge. The highest level of excellent knowledge about Monkeypox disease was observed among participants in the age group 26-45 years (55.1%), whereas the lowest was observed among those in the age group 46-60 years (39.7%), P = 0.001. More educated participants (university/postgraduates) were more knowledgeable about Monkeypox disease as 53.5% of them had excellent level of knowledge compared to 33.3% of those below secondary school educational level, P = 0.047.

Conclusion

The knowledge of the general population about Monkeypox is acceptable. However, defective knowledge was observed regarding the fact that Monkeypox is not a new infection that appeared in the year 2022 as well as about the availability of a monkeypox vaccine in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, it is recommended to organize educational activities about the disease for general population targeted mainly lower educated and elderly subjects.

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Khan G, Perveen N. Monkeypox: Past, Present, and Future. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024;1451:1-20. [PMID: 38801568 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-57165-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]

Khan G, Perveen N. The 2022 monkeypox outbreak 1 year on: The 5 Ws. Rev Med Virol 2024;34:e2489. [PMID: 37930054 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]

Alhummayani NM, Alobaid JM, Altamimi IM, Nuwayim TA, Alyanbaawi KK, Alhomayani NM, Alhamyani HM. Awareness and Knowledge of the General Population About Monkeypox Disease in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023;15:e50171. [PMID: 38077688 PMCID: PMC10705816 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2024] Open

Abstract

Background Monkeypox is a globally spreading disease, representing a significant threat to human life in all countries of the world, and Saudi Arabia is no exception. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of the general adult population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia about monkeypox. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia among a sample of adults (aged over 18 years) who attended the outpatient clinics of the First Cluster primary healthcare centers, King Saud Medical City, and Ministry of Health in November 2022. A self-administered Arabic questionnaire, including sociodemographic characteristics of the participants, beliefs regarding monkeypox, and knowledge assessment about monkeypox through 23 multiple-choice questions, was utilized. Results The study included 375 participants, of whom 270 (72%) were aged between 26 and 45 years, and 195 (52%) were males. Overall, 258 (68.8%) participants had insufficient knowledge about monkeypox. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that participants aged over 45 years were almost at a three-fold risk of having an insufficient level of knowledge about the disease compared to those aged between 18 and 25 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07-8.69, p = 0.037). University/higher educated participants were at 61% lower risk of having an insufficient level of knowledge about the disease compared to those with an education level of below secondary school (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.09-0.65, p = 0.013). Compared to housewives/non-working participants, governmental employees were at a significantly lower risk of having insufficient knowledge about monkeypox (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.26-0.89, p = 0.020). Conclusions Knowledge of the general population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia regarding monkeypox is insufficient, particularly regarding the fact that a monkeypox vaccine is available in Saudi Arabia and monkeypox is not a new infection that appeared in 2022. Therefore, there is a need to implement educational sessions at primary care centers and outpatient clinics of hospitals about the disease.

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Alarifi AM, Alshahrani NZ, Sah R. Are Saudi Healthcare Workers Willing to Receive the Monkeypox Virus Vaccine? Evidence from a Descriptive-Baseline Survey. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023;8:396. [PMID: 37624334 PMCID: PMC10459197 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open

Mahameed H, Al-Mahzoum K, AlRaie LA, Aburumman R, Al-Naimat H, Alhiary S, Barakat M, Al-Tammemi AB, Salim NA, Sallam M. Previous Vaccination History and Psychological Factors as Significant Predictors of Willingness to Receive Mpox Vaccination and a Favorable Attitude towards Compulsory Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2023;11:897. [PMID: 37243001 PMCID: PMC10221367 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open

Abstract

During the ongoing multi-country monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak, healthcare workers (HCWs) have represented a key group in mitigating disease spread. The current study aimed to evaluate the attitude of nurses and physicians in Jordan towards Mpox vaccination, as well as their attitude towards compulsory vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), influenza, and Mpox. An online survey was distributed in January 2023 based on the previously validated 5C scale for psychological determinants of vaccination. Previous vaccination behavior was assessed by inquiring about the history of getting the primary and booster COVID-19 vaccination, influenza vaccine uptake during COVID-19, and any history of influenza vaccine uptake. The study sample consisted of 495 respondents: nurses (n = 302, 61.0%) and physicians (n = 193, 39.0%). Four hundred and thirty respondents (86.9%) had heard of Mpox before the study, and formed the final sample considered for Mpox knowledge analysis. Deficiencies in Mpox knowledge were reflected in a mean knowledge score of 13.3 ± 2.7 (out of 20.0 as the maximum score), with significantly lower knowledge among nurses and females. The intention to receive Mpox vaccination was reported by 28.9% of the participants (n = 143), while 33.3% were hesitant (n = 165), and 37.8% were resistant (n = 187). In multivariate analysis, Mpox vaccine acceptance was significantly associated with previous vaccination behavior, reflected in higher vaccine uptake and with higher 5C scores, while Mpox knowledge was not correlated with Mpox vaccination intention. The overall attitude towards compulsory vaccination was neutral, while a favorable attitude towards compulsory vaccination was associated with higher 5C scores and a history of previous vaccination uptake. The current study showed a low intention to get Mpox vaccination in a sample of nurses and physicians practicing in Jordan. The psychological factors and previous vaccination behavior appeared as the most significant determinants of Mpox vaccine acceptance and of attitudes towards compulsory vaccination. The consideration of these factors is central to policies and strategies aiming to promote vaccination among health professionals in efforts to prepare for future infectious disease epidemics.

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Addai E, Ngungu M, Omoloye MA, Marinda E. Modelling the impact of vaccination and environmental transmission on the dynamics of monkeypox virus under Caputo operator. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2023;20:10174-10199. [PMID: 37322928 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2023446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]

Berdida DJE. Human monkeypox infection knowledge in the Philippines: An online cross-sectional survey. Heliyon 2023:e13864. [PMID: 36824324 PMCID: PMC9938543 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open

Malaeb D, Sallam M, Salim NA, Dabbous M, Younes S, Nasrallah Y, Iskandar K, Matta M, Obeid S, Hallit S, Hallit R. Knowledge, Attitude and Conspiracy Beliefs of Healthcare Workers in Lebanon towards Monkeypox. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023;8:81. [PMID: 36828497 PMCID: PMC9965137 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open

Abstract

The emergence of a monkeypox (MPOX) outbreak in 2022 represented the most recent recognizable public health emergency at a global level. Improving knowledge and attitude towards MPOX, particularly among healthcare workers (HCWs), can be a valuable approach in public health preventive efforts aiming to halt MPOX virus spread. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of HCWs in Lebanon towards MPOX and to assess their conspiratorial attitude towards emerging virus infections (EVIs). The current study was based on a cross-sectional online survey distributed via Google Forms during September-December 2022 implementing a convenience sampling approach. The final study sample comprised a total of 646 HCWs: physicians (n = 171, 26.5%), pharmacists (n = 283, 43.8%), and nurses (n = 168, 26.0%), among others (n = 24, 3.7%). Variable defects in MPOX knowledge were detected, with a third of the participants having MPOX knowledge above the 75th percentile (n = 218, 33.7%). Satisfactory attitude towards MPOX (>75th percentile) was observed in less than a third of the participants (n = 198, 30.7%), while a quarter of the study sample endorsed conspiracy beliefs towards EVIs at a high level (>75th percentile, n = 164, 25.4%). Slightly more than two thirds of the participants agreed that MPOX vaccination should be used in disease prevention (n = 440, 68.1%). Better levels of MPOX knowledge and attitude were significantly associated with postgraduate education and older age. Physicians had significantly higher MPOX knowledge compared to other occupational categories. Less endorsement of conspiracies towards EVIs was significantly associated with male sex, occupation as a physician, and postgraduate education. Higher MPOX knowledge was associated with better attitude towards the disease. The current study showed unsatisfactory MPOX knowledge among Lebanese HCWs. Educational efforts can be valuable to improve the attitude towards the disease. Despite the relatively low level of embracing conspiracy beliefs regarding EVIs among HCWs in this study compared to previous studies, this area should be considered based on its potential impact on health-seeking behavior.

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Affiliation(s)

Diana Malaeb College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman P.O. Box 4184, United Arab Emirates School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
Malik Sallam Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
Nesreen A. Salim Prosthodontic Department, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Prosthodontic Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
Mariam Dabbous School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon School of Education, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
Samar Younes Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
Yves Nasrallah School of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Beirut, Lebanon
Katia Iskandar Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon INSPECT-LB—National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology and Toxicology-Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
Matta Matta Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Center Hospitalier de Melun, 77000 Melun, France
Sahar Obeid Department of Social and Education Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
Souheil Hallit School of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Beirut, Lebanon Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib P.O. Box 60096, Lebanon
Rabih Hallit School of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Beirut, Lebanon Department of Infectious Disease, Bellevue Medical Center, Mansourieh, Lebanon Department of Infectious Disease, Notre Dame des Secours, University Hospital Center, Byblos, Lebanon

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Sahin TK, Erul E, Aksun MS, Sonmezer MC, Unal S, Akova M. Knowledge and Attitudes of Turkish Physicians towards Human Monkeypox Disease and Related Vaccination: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2022;11:19. [PMID: 36679864 PMCID: PMC9863926 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open

Abstract

Background: In May 2022, the monkeypox virus outbreak in multiple countries on various continents marked a potential resurgence of the disease as a global health issue. Considering the crucial role of physicians in mitigating the monkeypox outbreak, we sought to evaluate physicians’ knowledge, attitude, concerns, and vaccine acceptance for monkeypox, in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A large-scale, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 283 physicians between 20 August−2 September 2022, in Turkey. The participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, concerns, and vaccine acceptance toward monkeypox infection were collected via a questionnaire. Results: Our study revealed that 32.5% of physicians achieved a good level of knowledge; similarly, 31.4% of the physicians planned to have the monkeypox vaccine. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that female physicians (p = 0.031) and older people (≥30 vs. <30) were more likely to be knowledgeable about monkeypox (p = 0.007). We found that participants from divisions of internal medicine (p = 0.033) who knew about the monkeypox disease during medical school or residency (p = 0.005) and were previously exposed to COVID-19 disease (p = 0.005) were more likely to have a good knowledge score of monkeypox. We also found that physicians with a good knowledge score were more worried about monkeypox compared to COVID-19 (AOR: 2.22; 95% CI:1.13−4.33; p = 0.019). Additionally, those who had information on monkeypox during medical education (AOR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.10−4.21; p = 0.024) were more likely to receive the smallpox vaccine to prevent monkeypox viral infection when available. Conclusions: The present study pointed out that physicians in Turkey have unsatisfactory levels of knowledge about the emerging monkeypox. This study results can impede attempts to detect and manage cases of monkeypox and should be addressed through appropriate and timely awareness and educational programs, alerts, and seminars. These might serve as the basis for policymakers’ decisions about promoting national monkeypox vaccination strategies and addressing potential vaccine hesitancy and misinformation when needed.

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Sallam M, Eid H, Awamleh N, Al-Tammemi AB, Barakat M, Athamneh RY, Hallit S, Harapan H, Mahafzah A. Conspiratorial Attitude of the General Public in Jordan towards Emerging Virus Infections: A Cross-Sectional Study Amid the 2022 Monkeypox Outbreak. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022;7:411. [PMID: 36548666 PMCID: PMC9787389 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7120411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open

Abstract

Conspiracy theories accompany the emergence of infectious diseases and the 2022 multi-country monkeypox (MPX) outbreak is no exception. It is possible that the adoption of conspiracy beliefs negatively impacts health behavior. We aimed to assess the prevalence of conspiratorial attitudes towards emerging virus infections (EVIs) and the response measures aiming to control these infections among the general public in Jordan. In addition, we assessed MPX knowledge and the belief in the role of men who have sex with men (MSM) in virus spread. The online survey data were collected during 24 May 2022-28 June 2022. The survey instrument was based on previously published scales designed to measure MPX knowledge and EVI conspiracies. A total of 611 respondents formed the final study sample, with a mean age of 44 years and a majority of females (n = 433, 70.9%). On a scale ranging from -10 to +10, the median MPX knowledge score in the study sample was +3 (interquartile range: +1 to +5). Educational level was a determinant of MPX knowledge in multivariate analysis. More than 50% of the participants agreed at least to some extent with 9 out of 12 of the EVI conspiracy items. Multivariate analysis showed that embracing conspiracy beliefs about EVIs was associated with being female, and agreeing with or having no opinion regarding the role of MSM in MPX spread. The current study revealed the high prevalence of belief in conspiracies surrounding EVIs, and its accompanying intervention measures, among the general public in Jordan. In addition, a lower level of MPX knowledge was observed compared to previous studies among university students and health professionals in the country. We recommend evaluating the impact of the widely prevalent conspiracy beliefs on health aspects in future studies. This aim is particularly relevant in the Middle Eastern countries where embracing specific conspiracy ideas is a common occurrence.

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Affiliation(s)

Malik Sallam Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
Huda Eid Department of Dentistry, Queen Alia Military Hospital, Amman 11731, Jordan
Nour Awamleh Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Ala'a B Al-Tammemi Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan Migration Health Division, International Organization for Migration (IOM), The UN Migration Agency, Amman 11953, Jordan
Muna Barakat Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan
Rabaa Y Athamneh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa 13132, Jordan
Souheil Hallit Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh P.O. Box 446, Lebanon Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib P.O. Box 60096, Lebanon
Harapan Harapan Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia Tsunami and Disaster Mitigation Research Center (TDMRC), Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
Azmi Mahafzah Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan

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Pandya VS, Mehta V, Miraj M, Alasiry SM, Alanazy W, Uthup TT, Shaik RA, D’Amico C, Mancini M, Gorassini F, Fiorillo L, Meto A. Monkeypox: An Unfamiliar Virus-Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics, Diagnosis, and Treatment with Special Emphasis on Oral Health. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022;12:2749. [PMID: 36359593 PMCID: PMC9689609 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12112749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open

Affiliation(s)

Visha Shailesh Pandya Department of Public Health Dentistry, Vaidik Dental College & Research Centre, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396210, India
Vini Mehta Department of Public Health Dentistry, Dr. D.Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune 411018, India
Mohammas Miraj Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
Sharifa M. Alasiry Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
Wdad Alanazy Department of Maternity Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
Tintu Thomas Uthup Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh 13316, Saudi Arabia
Riyaz Ahamed Shaik Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
Cesare D’Amico Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
Maura Mancini Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
Francesca Gorassini Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
Luca Fiorillo Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Odontostomatological Specialties, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80121 Naples, Italy Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Aldent, 1007 Tirana, Albania
Aida Meto Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Aldent, 1007 Tirana, Albania Clinical Microbiology, School of Dentistry, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy

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Papukashvili D, Rcheulishvili N, Liu C, Wang X, He Y, Wang PG. Strategy of developing nucleic acid-based universal monkeypox vaccine candidates. Front Immunol 2022;13:1050309. [PMID: 36389680 PMCID: PMC9646902 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1050309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open

Hasan S, Saeed S. Monkeypox Disease: An Emerging Public Health Concern in the Shadow of COVID-19 Pandemic: An Update. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022;7:tropicalmed7100283. [PMID: 36288024 PMCID: PMC9607171 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7100283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open

Sallam M, Al-Mahzoum K, Al-Tammemi AB, Alkurtas M, Mirzaei F, Kareem N, Al-Naimat H, Jardaneh L, Al-Majali L, AlHadidi A, Al-Salahat K, Al-Ajlouni E, AlHadidi NM, Bakri FG, Harapan H, Mahafzah A. Assessing Healthcare Workers' Knowledge and Their Confidence in the Diagnosis and Management of Human Monkeypox: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Middle Eastern Country. Healthcare (Basel) 2022;10:1722. [PMID: 36141334 PMCID: PMC9498667 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10091722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open

Abstract

The ongoing multi-country human monkeypox (HMPX) outbreak was declared as a public health emergency of international concern. Considering the key role of healthcare workers (HCWs) in mitigating the HMPX outbreak, we aimed to assess their level of knowledge and their confidence in diagnosis and management of the disease, besides the assessment of their attitude towards emerging virus infections from a conspiracy point of view. An online survey was distributed among HCWs in Jordan, a Middle Eastern country, during May−July 2022 using a questionnaire published in a previous study among university students in health schools in Jordan. The study sample comprised 606 HCWs, with about two-thirds being either physicians (n = 204, 33.7%) or nurses (n = 190, 31.4%). Four out of the 11 HMPX knowledge items had <50% correct responses with only 33.3% of the study respondents having previous knowledge that vaccination is available to prevent HMPX. A majority of study respondents (n = 356, 58.7%) strongly agreed, agreed or somewhat agreed that the spread of HMPX is related to a role of male homosexuals. Confidence in the ability of diagnosis based on the available monkeypox virus diagnostic tests was reported by 50.2% of the respondents, while the confidence levels were lower for the ability to manage (38.9%) and to diagnose (38.0%) HMPX cases based on their current level of knowledge and skills. Higher confidence levels for HMPX diagnosis and management were found among physicians compared to nurses. The endorsement of conspiracy beliefs about virus emergence was associated with lower HMPX knowledge, the belief in the role of male homosexuals in HMPX spread, and with lower diagnosis and management confidence levels. The current study highlighted the gaps in knowledge regarding HMPX among HCWs in Jordan as well as the lack of confidence to diagnose and manage cases among physicians and nurses. Raising the awareness about the disease is needed urgently considering the rapid escalation in the number of cases worldwide with reported cases in the Middle East. The attitude towards male homosexuals’ role in HMPX spread necessitates proper intervention measures to prevent stigma and discrimination among this risk group. The adoption of conspiratorial beliefs regarding virus emergence was widely prevalent and this issue needs to be addressed with proper and accurate knowledge considering its potential harmful impact.

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Affiliation(s)

Malik Sallam Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
Kholoud Al-Mahzoum School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Ala’a B. Al-Tammemi Migration Health Division, International Organization for Migration (IOM), The UN Migration Agency, Amman 11953, Jordan
Mohammed Alkurtas Department of Pathology, Al-Kindy College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad 00964, Iraq
Fatemeh Mirzaei Student Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran
Nariman Kareem Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Hala Al-Naimat School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Laila Jardaneh School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Laith Al-Majali School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Akram AlHadidi Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
Khaled Al-Salahat Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
Eyad Al-Ajlouni Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
Nadin Mohammad AlHadidi Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
Faris G. Bakri Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Harapan Harapan Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
Azmi Mahafzah Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan

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Alsanafi M, Al-Mahzoum K, Sallam M. Monkeypox Knowledge and Confidence in Diagnosis and Management with Evaluation of Emerging Virus Infection Conspiracies among Health Professionals in Kuwait. Pathogens 2022;11:994. [PMID: 36145426 PMCID: PMC9503328 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11090994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open

Abstract

As the 2022 human monkeypox (HMPX) multi-country outbreak is spreading, the response of healthcare workers (HCWs) is central to mitigation efforts. The current study aimed to evaluate HMPX knowledge and confidence in diagnosis and management among HCWs in Kuwait. We used a self-administered questionnaire distributed in July-August 2022 through a snowball sampling approach. The survey items evaluated HMPX knowledge, confidence in diagnosis and management of the disease, and the belief in conspiracies regarding emerging virus infections (EVIs). The sample size was 896 HCWs: nurses (n = 485, 54.1%), pharmacists (n = 154, 17.2%), physicians (n = 108, 12.1%), medical technicians/allied health professionals (MT/AHP, n = 96, 10.7%), and dentists (n = 53, 5.9%). An overall low level of HMPX knowledge was noticed for items assessing virus transmission and non-cutaneous symptoms of the disease, with higher knowledge among physicians. Approximately one-fifth of the study sample agreed with the false notion that HMPX is exclusive to male homosexuals (n = 183, 20.4%), which was associated with lower knowledge with higher frequency among MT/AHP compared to nurses, physicians, and pharmacists. Confidence levels were low: confidence in diagnosis based on diagnostic tests (n = 449, 50.1%), confidence in the ability to manage the HMPX (n = 426, 47.5%), and confidence in the ability to diagnose HMPX clinically (n = 289, 32.3%). Higher confidence levels were found among nurses and participants with postgraduate degrees. Higher embrace of conspiracy beliefs regarding EVIs was noticed among participants with lower knowledge, and among those who agreed or were neutral/had no opinion regarding the false idea of HMPX exclusive occurrence among male homosexuals, while lower levels of belief in conspiracies were noticed among physicians, dentists, and pharmacists compared to MT/AHP. Variable levels of HMPX knowledge were observed in this study per item, with low level of knowledge regarding virus transmission. Differences in knowledge and confidence levels in diagnosis and management of HMPX should be considered in education and training aiming to prepare for outbreak response. The relatively high prevalence of embracing conspiratorial beliefs regarding EVIs is worrisome and needs proper interventions. The attitude towards male homosexuals' role in monkeypox spread should be evaluated in future studies considering the possibility of stigma and discrimination in this most-at-risk group.

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Tiecco G, Degli Antoni M, Storti S, Tomasoni LR, Castelli F, Quiros-Roldan E. Monkeypox, a Literature Review: What Is New and Where Does This concerning Virus Come From? Viruses 2022;14:1894. [PMID: 36146705 PMCID: PMC9501516 DOI: 10.3390/v14091894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open

Brites C, Deminco F, Sá MS, Brito JT, Luz E, Stocker A. The First Two Cases of Monkeypox Infection in MSM in Bahia, Brazil, and Viral Sequencing. Viruses 2022;14:1841. [PMID: 36146654 PMCID: PMC9503704 DOI: 10.3390/v14091841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open

Alshahrani NZ, Alzahrani F, Alarifi AM, Algethami MR, Alhumam MN, Ayied HAM, Awan AZ, Almutairi AF, Bamakhrama SA, Almushari BS, Sah R. Assessment of Knowledge of Monkeypox Viral Infection among the General Population in Saudi Arabia. Pathogens 2022;11:904. [PMID: 36015025 PMCID: PMC9414752 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open

Sallam M, Al-Mahzoum K, Dardas LA, Al-Tammemi AB, Al-Majali L, Al-Naimat H, Jardaneh L, AlHadidi F, Al-Salahat K, Al-Ajlouni E, AlHadidi NM, Bakri FG, Mahafzah A, Harapan H. Knowledge of Human Monkeypox and Its Relation to Conspiracy Beliefs among Students in Jordanian Health Schools: Filling the Knowledge Gap on Emerging Zoonotic Viruses. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022;58:924. [PMID: 35888642 PMCID: PMC9317638 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58070924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]

Abstract

Background and Objective: The recent multi-country outbreak of human monkeypox (HMPX) in non-endemic regions poses an emerging public health concern. University students in health schools/faculties represent a core knowledgeable group that can be helpful to study from a public health point of view. As future healthcare workers, assessment of their knowledge and attitude towards emerging zoonotic viral infections can be helpful to assess their taught material and courses with potential improvement if gaps in knowledge were identified. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the level of HMPX knowledge, conspiracy beliefs regarding emerging virus infections, as well as their associated determinants among university students studying Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Medical Laboratory Sciences, and Rehabilitation in Jordanian health schools/faculties. In addition, we sought to evaluate the correlation between HMPX knowledge and the extent of holding conspiracy beliefs regarding emerging viral infection. Materials and Methods: A convenient sample of university students was obtained through an electronic survey distributed in late May 2022 using the chain-referral approach. Assessment of HMPX knowledge and general attitude towards emerging virus infections was based on survey items adopted from previously published literature. Results: The study sample comprised 615 students with a mean age of 20 years and a majority of females (432, 70.2%) and medical students (n = 351, 57.1%). Out of eleven monkeypox knowledge items, three were identified correctly by >70% of the respondents. Only 26.2% of the respondents (n = 161) knew that vaccination to prevent monkeypox is available. Age was significantly associated with better HMPX knowledge for a majority of items. Older age, females, and affiliation to non-medical schools/faculties were associated with harboring higher levels of conspiracy beliefs regarding emerging virus infections. Our data also indicate that lower levels of HMPX knowledge were associated with higher levels of conspiracy beliefs. Conclusion: The current study pointed to generally unsatisfactory levels of knowledge regarding the emerging HMPX among university students in Jordanian health schools/faculties. Conspiracy beliefs regarding emerging virus infections were widely prevalent, and its potential detrimental impact on health behavior should be evaluated in future studies.

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Affiliation(s)

Malik Sallam Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-S.); (E.A.-A.); (A.M.) Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan; Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
Kholoud Al-Mahzoum School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-M.); (L.A.-M.); (H.A.-N.); (F.A.)
Latefa Ali Dardas School of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Ala’a B. Al-Tammemi Migration Health Division, International Organization for Migration (IOM), The UN Migration Agency, Amman 11953, Jordan;
Laith Al-Majali School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-M.); (L.A.-M.); (H.A.-N.); (F.A.)
Hala Al-Naimat School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-M.); (L.A.-M.); (H.A.-N.); (F.A.)
Laila Jardaneh School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Farah AlHadidi School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-M.); (L.A.-M.); (H.A.-N.); (F.A.)
Khaled Al-Salahat Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-S.); (E.A.-A.); (A.M.) Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Eyad Al-Ajlouni Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-S.); (E.A.-A.); (A.M.) Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Nadin Mohammad AlHadidi Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Faris G. Bakri Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Azmi Mahafzah Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (K.A.-S.); (E.A.-A.); (A.M.) Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Harapan Harapan Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia; Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia

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