Misconceptions about Ebola Virus Disease among Residents of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria: A Mixed-Method...

The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) has a high risk of death killing an average of about 50% of those infected. Several outbreaks have occurred intermittently since the disease was first described. The 2014 outbreak was the largest and most complex in recorded history. Rumours were rife especially through social media that a salt ritual amongst other unverified claims could prevent or cure EVD. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, perception and practices to prevent EVD in Calabar and to highlight the role of social media in health seeking behaviours.

This was a mixed method study, a combination of cross-sectional design and Focused Group Discussion conducted between November 2016 and June 2017.

Ninety-three percent (93%) of the respondents had heard about EVD with the radio (82%) being the dominant source of information. Virus as the causative agent and contact with body fluids as the most common mode of transmission were correctly identified by 72%. Fever ranked as the most common symptom by 75% and washing of hands (60%) was perceived as the most common way to prevent EVD. Sixty-three percent (63%) responded that salt is used to cure EVD,57% participated in the salt ritual and 85% of those who partook in the salt ritual later realized it did not cure or prevent EVD.

People should be encouraged to seek health related information from the appropriate sources. Effective and sustained communication strategies are advocated to mitigate rumour mongering and misinformation to curb unhealthy practices.