Assessment of the Knowledge of Avian Influenza (H5N1) Among Healthcare Workers in Lagos State, 2008

BACKGROUND

Influenza A (H5N1) virus is highly contagious among birds and can be deadly to them. Infections with these viruses have occurred in humans. Healthcare workers need to be adequately informed on Avian Influenza (AI).

METHODS

A stratified multistage sampling of healthcare workers in Lagos State was done between March and May 2008. Self administered questionnaires were used to collect information about socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of transmission and prevention of AI, attitudes towards AI, behaviours regarding use of preventive measures, standard precautionary practices and sources of information about AI.

RESULTS

Primary Health Care providers (Private clinics and Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs)) made up 75% of the respondents, most of whom were Nurses 143 (39%). There were more Females (68.1%) than Males (31.9%). Out of 367 respondents, 63 (17%) said Avian Influenza did not exist, Many respondents had basic information about AI but most of these information were from the mass media (64 – 72%). About 250 respondents (68%) believed it is a disease of chickens only. 220 (60%) knew that some farms were affected in Lagos State, only 187 (51%) knew that a human case was detected in Lagos.

Though 186 (50.8%) of the respondents knew there are drugs for treating AI patients, 275 (75%) did not know the exact group of drugs for treatment. About 113 (30.8%) of the respondents knew of the State’s designated Facility for referral and treatment of AI patients.

162 (44%) of the respondents did not know negative pressure rooms are a precaution for such airborne infections.

CONCLUSION

There is a need to carry out more sensitization seminars for Healthcare workers on AI. Healthcare workers need to be adequately informed on AI and its control strategies in order to succeed in its control; they have to be adequately trained on AI and other possible pandemics.