Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Arboviruses at a Human-Wildlife Interface: A Cross-Sectional Study in...

Arboviruses, such as yellow fever and dengue viruses, pose a growing public health threat in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly at human-wildlife interfaces. Mole National Park (MNP), with its rich biodiversity and ecotourism, represents a high-risk area and has been the epicentre of recent outbreaks in Ghana. The objective of this study was to assess community knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding arboviral transmission and prevention in this high-risk interface. In December 2023, we conducted a cross-sectional KAP survey among 300 adults in MNP (n = 120) and nearby communities, Murugu (n = 94) and Mognori (n = 86) using structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, and a multivariable logistic regression model (α = .05). Awareness of yellow fever was high (92.0%), but none mentioned dengue or Zika; awareness varied significantly by location (MNP 96.7%, Murugu 96.8%, Mognori 80.2%; P < .001). Only 44.0% correctly associated mosquito bites with yellow fever transmission. Fever was cited as a common symptom by 17.0%, but misconceptions such as "yellow vomit" (5.0%) and "yellow urine" (10.3%) persisted. While nearly all (95.7%) reported using Insecticide-treated nets, adoption of other preventive measures like repellents (5.0%) and environmental management (1.0%) was very low. Perceptions of arbovirus presence also differed significantly across communities (MNP 48.4%, Murugu 38.7%, Mognori 12.9%; P < .001). Despite these knowledge gaps, all respondents indicated they would seek medical care if infected. These findings suggest that, despite high awareness of yellow fever, knowledge gaps persist regarding its symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures. Addressing these requires sustained health education initiatives on arboviral disease transmission, improved access to repellents and water, sanitation, and hygiene tools, and a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health.