ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND RISK FACTORS INFLUENCING TYPHOID FEVER AMONG RESIDENTS OF EDE NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT, OSUN STATE.

Introduction: Typhoid fever also known as enteric fever is transmitted by the feco-oral route through ingestion of contaminated food or water that contains Salmonella Typhi. Poor knowledge and risks factors associated with typhoid fever contributed to the prolonged transmission of the diseases in the community. Aim: The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, determine the risk factors and practices influencing typhoid fever as well as to identify the preventive measures practiced by residents of Ede North Local Goverment towards typhoid fever. Methodology: community-based cross sectional study design was utilized for the study. Convenience sampling technique method was used. Data was collected using semi-constructed questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS. Results: findings revealed that (81.8%) had a good knowledge on causes, transmission and signs and symptoms of typhoid fever. (55.4%) had a good knowledge on risk factors influencing typhoid fever. (86.34%) correctly identified lack of portable water supply as a risk factor, same proportion had a good knowledge on preventive measures and practices. Conclusions: The local health facilities should incorporate typhoid fever topic as part of their health educational system within the health facility and at the community level. The local municipality town should work on the waste disposal strategy and there is need to create projects and programs that will help educate the residents on how to control and prevent typhoid fever effectively in the area. Key words; Typhoid fever, knowledge, risk factors, preventive measures, practices Word count: 227.