RESUMO
Aims: To determine the level of knowledge of Lassa fever among students of a Federal College of Education. Study Design: A descriptive, cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo State. Methodology: Knowledge of Lassa fever was assessed using semi-structured, self-administered questionnaires. Respondents were classified into Biology students and others. Their knowledge of Lassa fever was assessed using a set of multiple-choice questions drawn from the fact sheet published by the Centre for Disease Control of Lassa fever. The respondents were then grouped into three classes: Below average (< 50%), good (50-74%), and excellent (75-100%) based on their scores. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 17. Continuous variables were expressed as frequency and percentage. Discrete variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Student test was used to compare mean value of sub-groups while chi-square test was used to determine the significance of observed differences for categorical variables. P value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 255 students participated in this study (M:F, 1:1.3). The mean score was 31.6±7.3%. Forty two percent were studying Biology and seven (2.7%) had good knowledge of the disease. Sixty two percent knew the cause of Lassa fever while 12.5% knew its etymology and 92.6% recognized rats as its vector. Fever (38.8%) and bleeding into the skin (20.4%) were the symptoms of Lassa fever identified by most respondents while 14.9% were aware that less than 20% of infected people may die from Lassa fever. Forty two percent knew that it is treatable. There was no significant difference in the knowledge of Lassa fever between Biology students and others (p = 0.083). Conclusion: Knowledge of Lassa fever is poor among our respondents. For a successful teacher-centered enlightenment campaign against Lassa fever, lectures on the disease should be included in the curriculum of Colleges of Education for all departments.
RESUMO
Background: There has been global concern regarding HIV/AIDS epidemic particularly in developing countries. The magnitude of the epidemic result not only in the loss of human life but enormous financial burden to health care system and loss of productivity to the country. It has created unparalleled social and medical challenge. Aims & Objective: This study assesses the knowledge, attitude and risky sexual practices on HIV/AIDS among commercial motorcyclist in Osogbo, Osun States. Material and Methods: A cross- sectional survey of two local government areas in Osogbo town, Osun States, Nigeria was conducted in November, 2007. Study participants were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. A total of 298 participants were surveyed using a semi-structured, pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire over a two weeks period. Data entry and analysis were carried out using SPSS version 11. Results: Over 90% of the participants were aware of HIV/AIDS and a larger proportion (94%) believed in its existence, while comprehensive knowledge on its causative agent, mode of prevention and transmission are inadequate. Many of the respondents have poor attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS (61.7%). High-risk behaviours that can predispose to HIV/AIDS are still predominant as 52.5% takes alcohol, 18.0 % smokes and 55.0% indulge in extramarital affairs. Conclusion: The findings in this study showed a high level of general awareness about the existence of HIV/AIDS but comprehensive knowledge remains low. Many of the respondents have poor attitudes towards People Living With Aids and also engage in high-risky behaviours that can predispose to HIV/AIDs. There is need for multi-pronged approach in the dissemination of information on the prevention and control of HIV/AIDs.