Socio-demographic determinants of monkeypox virus preventive behavior: a cross-sectional study in Pakistan

Background Monkeypox, a re-emerging zoonotic infectious disease, is striking the world with serious public health concerns, especially in non-endemic countries. The public’s knowledge and attitude toward the monkeypox virus (MPXV) influence their adherence to preventive strategies. Therefore, we aimed to assess the general public’s knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of MPXV in Pakistan. Methods We collected data for this cross-sectional study from 1040 participants via an online self-reported questionnaire from 5 th July 2022 to 1 st August 2022. The questionnaire consisted of a total of 29 items in four sections, assessing socio-demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding MPXV. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS V.25, and factors associated with MPXV knowledge, attitude, and practices were identified by using logistic regression analyses Results A total of1040participants were included. 61.4% were male and 57.2% had graduation level education. Only 34.4% had good knowledge about MPXV and 30% were aware of effectiveness of smallpox vaccine against MPXV. 41.7% had positive attitude with 48.6% agreed that it is a fatal disease and 44.6% were in favor of banning travelling from endemic to non-endemic regions.57.7% had good practices and 69.9% would use protective measures if MPXV become an epidemic. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that gender and education significantly impacted knowledge (p<0.05). While monthly income status had a significant impact on attitudes (p<0.05). The practices were correlated positively with gender and education (p<0.05). Conclusion The majority of study participants had inadequate levels of knowledge, and attitudes regarding MPXV. To prevent the emergence and spread of MPXV in Pakistan, a comprehensive strategic framework for public health education must be established and implemented.