Preliminary Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Students: Zika Virus and Maternal Health

Abstract

PurposeTo assess student Zika virus knowledge, attitudes, and practice related to maternal health. In 2007 widespread human infection from the Zika virus became more widespread. As a result there has been increased public health concern worldwide. The Zika virus is associated with health problems and also economic losses. Design, setting and subjectsA preliminary survey of Zika knowledge, attitudes, and practice was administered to a convenience sample of college students. MeasuresA twenty-four question survey was modified from the World Health Organization. AnalysisDescriptive statistics were used. ResultsSixty-one (61) students completed the survey. The majority of respondents were female (85.7%, n=43), mean age of 27 years. No student responses were 100% accurate for signs/symptoms of Zika but most students could identify the majority of the symptoms.Over half (63.6%, n=21) supported access to abortions. The majority supported testing all pregnant women for Zika (75.0%, n=36), the development of a vaccine (89.4%, n=42) and most would get a Zika vaccine (68.1%, n=32). ConclusionIn an era of abundant information, the lack of consistent Zika health knowledge among students further highlights the importance of accurate and timely health information to improve maternal and child health.