Healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards Monkeypox and its vaccines: A systematic review

Document Type : Systematic review or meta-analysis

Authors

1 Department of Clinical Nursing, Princess Muna College of Nursing, Mutah University, Amman, Jordan

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Middle East University, Amman, Jordan

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan

4 Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, 19117 Jordan

5 Harvard University, medical school, USA

6 Department of Midwifery, Al-Balqa Applied University, School of Nursing–Midwifery Department, Al-Salt, Jordan

7 Assistant professor, Faculty of Nursing, Nursing Department, Irbid National University, Irbid, Jordan

Abstract

Background: The Monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak in 2022, primarily spread through intimate contact with affected animals and contaminated objects, has raised concerns about its global health impact, especially in healthcare settings due to potential human-to-human transmission. Healthcare Providers (HCPs) knowledge and attitudes about infectious diseases like Mpox can significantly impact their management and transmission risk reduction. However, gaps in awareness and varying attitudes may hinder vaccine uptake and safety concerns. This review aims to investigate the current knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of Mpox among HCPs. Methods: This systematic review analyzed cross-sectional studies published between 2020 and 2024, using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's quality checklist. Results: This analysis comprised a total of 15 studies. The findings indicate that HCPs' awareness, attitudes, and knowledge of Mpox varied among the included research conducted in various locations and eras. Furthermore, HCPs' knowledge, attitudes, and awareness regarding Mpox are greatly influenced by specific demographic traits, such as occupation and educational attainment. Five research examined associated aspects of HCPs' awareness, attitudes, and knowledge regarding Mpox. Nine research were solely concerned with evaluating knowledge about Mpox. Furthermore, only one study assessed HCPs' knowledge of Mpox directly. Conclusion: This study of HCPs' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about monkeypox and vaccines reveals disparities in knowledge and effectiveness of public health measures. Addressing these gaps requires education, training, and awareness initiatives.

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