Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Towards Monkeypox and Associated Factors Among Undergraduate Healthcare Students in Ethiopia, 2025: A Cross‐Sectional Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Mpox has emerged as a re‐emerging zoonotic disease of global public health concern, particularly affecting regions with limited awareness and preparedness. University students represent a critical population for disease prevention due to their mobility, social interaction, and role as future professionals. Aims To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Monkeypox virus among undergraduate students in Central Ethiopia. Methods An institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 410 undergraduate healthcare students. Data were collected using a structured, self‐administered questionnaire covering socio‐demographic characteristics and knowledge, attitude, and practice related to Mpox. Knowledge, attitude, and practice levels were categorized using Bloom's cut‐off points. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results Among 410 medical and health science graduates, 85% had heard of Mpox. While most correctly identified it as a viral disease (92.6%) and knew its major transmission routes (85%), knowledge gaps existed regarding vaccination (26.8%) and incubation period (16%), and 41.4% incorrectly cited antibiotics as treatment. Overall, 43.9% had good knowledge, 7.3% moderate, and 48.7% poor. A positive attitude was reported by 75.6%, with great concern about disease spread (80.4%) and willingness to self‐isolate (83.1%), though only 29.2% trusted the healthcare system's preparedness. Preventive practices were generally good (76.1%), including frequent hand hygiene (85.3%) and mask use (90.2%). Prior awareness, adequate knowledge, and a positive attitude were significantly linked to better preventive practices. Conclusion Despite favorable attitudes and practices, undergraduate healthcare students exhibited important knowledge gaps regarding Mpox. Strengthening curriculum integration, targeted training, and access to reliable information sources is essential to improve preparedness for emerging infectious diseases.