Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward Mpox among laboratory professionals in Zambia: A cross-sectional study

TL;DR

This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of laboratory professionals in Zambia regarding Mpox, revealing significant gaps that highlight the need for better training and preparedness.

Contribution

The study provides the first assessment of Mpox preparedness among Zambian laboratory professionals, identifying critical knowledge and practice gaps.

Findings

Only 52.2% of laboratory professionals demonstrated good knowledge of Mpox.

Significant gaps were found in understanding Mpox transmission and complications.

Just 7.5% exhibited good Mpox-related practices, with health center workers showing the lowest rates.

Abstract

Monkeypox (Mpox), caused by the Mpox virus, is an emerging zoonotic disease of global public health significance. In Zambia, limited data exist on laboratory professionals’ (LPs) preparedness to manage and prevent Mpox outbreaks. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding Mpox among LPs in Zambia.

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 293 LPs across Zambia from April to August 2025. A structured, validated questionnaire assessed socio-demographic data and KAP toward Mpox. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analyses were performed using Stata version 15.

Of the 293 respondents, 52.2% demonstrated good knowledge, 47.4% had a positive attitude, and 7.5% exhibited good Mpox-related practices. Significant knowledge gaps were observed, including limited awareness of Mpox transmission (62.5%), complications (76.1%). Additionally, 72% of LPs expressed willingness or support for mandatory Mpox vaccination. LPs working in health centres/clinics (AOR = 0.07; 95% CI: 0.009–0.54; p = 0.11), private hospitals (AOR = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.003–0.74; p = 0.030), public hospitals (AOR = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.011–0.39; p = 0.003), and research or academic institutions (AOR = 0.10; 95% CI: 0.01–0.77; p = 0.027) were significantly less likely to report good Mpox-related practices compared to those working in district or provincial health offices.

The study highlights a low knowledge, a relatively low positive attitude, and poor practices toward Mpox among Zambian LPs. Identified gaps underscore the important need for targeted education and capacity-building initiatives to enhance Mpox preparedness and response.

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