A cross-sectional study of Mpox Knowledge, Attitudes toward Mpox Vaccination and Mpox Vaccine Hesitancy Among Teachers in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Sixteen African countries, including Kenya, reported mpox cases in July and August, prompting the Africa Centers for Disease Control to declare the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security on 13th August 2024. The World Health Organization issued an advisory for mpox-related prevention in schools whereby teachers are expected to support mpox-infected students. There is a dearth of information of mpox knowledge and attitudes toward mpox vaccination among teachers in Kenya. Method: An online survey involving 1139 teachers was conducted from 21st August to 3rd October, 2024 to determine the level of mpox knowledge and attitudes toward mpox vaccine and hesitancy factors. Results: The teachers’ mean mpox knowledge score was 8.2 out of 12 whereas the mean mpox attitude score was 3.7 out of 6. At the time of the survey, more than 34 % of the respondents were not aware of mpox cases in the country. The hesitancy rate for vaccination was 49.78 %. More than 62 % of participants cited concerns about vaccine side effects as the main reason for hesitancy. However, participants with certificate and diploma were more likely to accept to be vaccinated against mpox. Only 1.23 % of the participants received mpox information from the Teachers Service Commission. This study identifies gaps in mpox knowledge and attitudes toward mpox vaccination. It suggests that collaboration between the Teachers Service Commission and healthcare providers can ensure effective school community-based prevention strategies by improving mpox knowledge and attitudes toward mpox vaccination among teachers in Kenya.