Bridging Cultural Gaps in Health Communication: Indigenous Language as a Catalyst for Combatting Monkeypox in Lagos, Nigeria
Description
Infectious diseases such as Monkeypox have continued to pose significant threats to global health, demanding effective strategies for prevention and control. Existing studies have primarily focused on Monkeypox clinical analysis, with less attention given to adopting indigenous language as a health communication for the proper behavioural practices. This study investigated the usage of indigenous language as a health communication strategy towards the prevention of Monkeypox vis-à-vis the knowledge, attitude, and practices of Alimosho residents of Lagos State. Furthermore, the study determines the influence of information sources on resident’s behavioural practices. The research employed a mixed-methods approach of in-depth interviews and surveys to collect data from public health practitioners and 439 randomly selected residents of Alimosho using multistage sampling. Findings revealed a mixed level of understanding and adherence to recommended preventive measures. The study revealed that little effort was channelled into raising awareness about Monkeypox especially as it involved using the indigenous language. The hospital focused mainly on Hepatitis B virus, Hepatitis C virus, HIV, and Smallpox by employing communication channels such as seminars, flyers and use the media. The study also showed that majority of the respondents (83%) were aware of Monkeypox; however, only 20.4% were knowledgeable about the symptoms, mode of transmission, and preventive measures towards the disease. This study concludes that there is poor knowledge regarding Monkeypox amongst Alimosho residents despite seeking information on the disease. Therefore, the study further recommends that indigenous language should be adopted alongside the various communication channels used by the Government as well as Non-governmental organisations towards orienting Alimosho residents about Monkeypox right behavioural practices.
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