Knowledge and Beliefs about Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) among Teachers in Ondo State Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines teachers’ knowledge and beliefs about EVD. This study was conducted in selected secondary and primary schools in Nigeria. Data were obtained from 350 Teachers sampled randomly from Ikare (200) and Akungba (150) respectively. Fifty Teachers (30 Senior Teachers and 20 Junior Teachers) were selected from the seven schools making a grand total of 350 Teachers for the entire study. The instrument, graduated ended questions on demographic characteristics, knowledge, and beliefs about Ebola Virus Disease. The instrument was validated by a group of experts in Epidemiology, Demography and Medical Sociology in three universities. Out of 350 instruments administered, the Return-Rate at 88.6% (310) was reliable enough for the study population. During a Pre-test, a reliability value of 0.98 were collated, edited and with the use of SPSS Version 17. Findings show that the knowledge about EVD was relatively high and those different beliefs systems determine and influence the perceived health seeking behaviour. The need to under study health belief system of the people and incorporate them into the care and cure system is recommended for EVD, an epidemic too soon to be forgotten.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2016.v7n3p451