KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PREVENTION OF LASSA FEVER AMONG RESPONDENTS IN AUCHI COMMUNITY, EDO STATE.

Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness that is endemic in most of West Africa (particularly Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia). The outbreak of Lassa fever in Nigeria has lasted longer and generated more cases and deaths than expected. This disease Is caused by the Lassa virus, which is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or feces. Person-to-person transmission can also occur, particularly in health-care settings in the absence of adequate infection control measures. To assess the knowledge, attitude and prevention practices regarding Lassa fever among respondents in Auchi community, Edo state, a descriptive study was designed. Structured questionnaires were preferred and administered to 352 respondents through a structured standardized interview. The data collected from the community were analyzed using frequency tables and percentage to provide a clear understanding of the respondent’s awareness and practices. The findings of this study revealed that 60% of the respondents had a good knowledge on Lassa fever. This indicates a fair level of awareness about the symptoms, transmission and consequences of the disease. Furthermore, 50% of the respondents exhibited positive attitudes toward the disease, such as recognizing the importance of early medical consultation and understanding the need for proper hygiene practices to prevent infection. Additionally, 40% of the respondents took preventive measures against Lassa fever, including avoiding contact with rodents and maintaining clean household environments. A significant number of those who practiced good attitudes and took preventive measures were individuals with a tertiary level of education. It was recommended that educating people about the disease and measures to Take in preventing the disease and the necessary preventive measures can significantly reduce the mortality rate and the spread of Lassa fever in the community. Public health campaigns that focus on educating the community about Lassa fever should emphasize the importance of rodent control, safe food storage practices and personal hygiene. Healthcare Workers should also be trained on proper infection control measures to prevent nosocomial transmission of the virus. Keyword: knowledge, attitude, prevention, lassa fever