Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Monkeypox Surveillance – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background Core elements such as emergency coordination, cooperative surveillance, community protection, safe and scalable care, countermeasures, and research have been used to direct preparedness and response operations. Among these, healthcare workers (HCWs) attitudes and knowledge regarding monkeypox (Mpox) play a crucial part in epidemic response, prevention, and readiness. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to look into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of HCWs about Mpox surveillance and reporting. Methods Using Boolean operators and MeSH keywords, a thorough search was carried out across numerous databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Papers reporting on KAP assessments among HCWs were included according to inclusion criteria. To ensure uniformity in data extraction, a standardized technique was used, and interrater reliability was verified. Quality assessment and meta-analysis were carried out. Results There was no statistically significant difference between the average mean KAP groups, according to the pooled odds ratio (ORs) for high knowledge (0.97), high altitude (1.00), and high practice (1.00) scores. High knowledge, attitude, and practice scores made up 35.6%, 32.9%, and 31.5% of the total scores, respectively. The pooled risk ratios (RRs) for high knowledge (0.98), high altitude (1.00), and high practice (1.01) scores were not significant, indicating that there was no discernible difference in KAP scores between the two groups, in line with the results of the OR analysis. Low heterogeneity was found in the examined studies overall and for each KAP category. Conclusion This study emphasizes the importance of addressing knowledge gaps and differences in attitudes and practices among HCWs regarding Mpox. Some HCWs showed excellent awareness and positive attitudes, whereas others lacked fundamental skills and preventative measures. The management of prospective Mpox outbreaks should be improved through the implementation of targeted educational interventions.