Knowledge and Attitude towards Ebola Virus Disease among Commercial Tricycle (Keke) Riders in Abakaliki, South-East Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a severe, often fatal disease in humans and non-human primates (such as Monkeys, Gorillas and Chimpanzees). Ebola first appeared in 1976 in 2 simultaneous outbreaks in Nzara, Sudan and in Yambuku, Democratic Republic of Congo. No cases of Zaire Ebola virus has ever been reported in West Africa until the recent outbreak. The study was carried out to ascertain the knowledge and attitude towards Ebola virus disease among commercial tricycle (Keke) riders in Abakaliki in case of recurrence. Methods: A descriptive cross- sectional study design was used for the survey. Data were collected using semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire from 300 commercial tricyclists selected using systematic sampling technique. Results: Majority of the respondents (99.33%) were aware of EVD. Fifty seven percent (57%) of respondents had good knowledge of EVD. Respondents with non-formal education had 37.5% good knowledge while those with formal education had 52.1% good knowledge. Concerning their attitude towards EVD, 75% of the respondents had negative attitude. Respondents with non-formal education had higher negative attitude (81.2%). Conclusion: There is need for more sensitization of the public as some of the respondents had negative attitude towards EVD.