Risk Management and Healthcare Policy (Dec 2023)
Monkeypox Knowledge Investigation and Knowledge Gap Analysis: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey in China
Abstract
Han Wang,1,* Wei Song,2,* Yuwei Wang,1 Xiwen Wu3 1School of Journalism and Communication, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Journalism and Information Communication, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan City, Hubei, 430074, People’s Republic of China; 3School of Media and Communication, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Xiwen Wu, School of Media and Communication, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS29JT, UK, Tel +44 7536 249140, Email [email protected]: Monkeypox, as a significant public health concern, warrants a thorough investigation into public knowledge and understanding. Especially in non-endemic areas like China, exploring the factors contributing to knowledge and understanding gaps is crucial for effective disease management and prevention strategies.Objective: This study aims to assess the level of monkeypox knowledge among the Chinese public and to identify the factors that influence this knowledge, particularly focusing on the knowledge gaps between different educational groups.Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 720 participants stratified by age, between July and August 2023. The survey used a modified monkeypox knowledge questionnaire, and hierarchical regression analysis was employed to analyze the data.Results: The study revealed a significant knowledge gap in the understanding of monkeypox among the Chinese public. Key factors influencing this knowledge included educational level, perceived relevance of information, interpersonal communication, and exposure to social media and official health websites. Notably, exposure to social media was found to widen the knowledge gap between different educational groups, with its positive impact more pronounced in individuals with at least a junior high school education.Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for varied communication strategies to effectively disseminate information about monkeypox and bridge the existing knowledge gaps. Tailoring health communication to different educational levels and utilizing diverse information sources are crucial for improving public understanding and containment of monkeypox.Keywords: monkeypox, health knowledge, knowledge gap, online survey, media exposure, awareness, China
