Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the Philippine general public towards human mpox (hMPX): a cross-sectional study
Abstract
Introduction: In the Philippines, research on knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding human mpox (hMPX) remains limited, despite rising case numbers. With vaccines unavailable locally, enhancing community awareness and promoting non-pharmaceutical interventions are crucial for reducing transmission risks. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized an anonymized online data collection tool to explore the general public's hMPX KAP and their relationships, and identify sociodemographic groups linked to low hMPX knowledge; 502 respondents were included in the analysis. Results: Knowledge levels were evenly distributed across low, moderate, and high categories. Higher knowledge was associated with being female (β = 0.130, p = 0.004), higher educational attainment (β = 0.134, p = 0.006), and smaller household size (β = -0.098, p = 0.028). Knowledge was not significantly associated with perceived disease susceptibility or severity, but strongly predicted perceived effectiveness of preventive measures. Perceived effectiveness, in turn, consistently emerged as the strongest predictor of preventive practices. Full mediation of the effect of knowledge by perceived effectiveness was observed with protective sexual practices and avoiding crowded places, but only partial with hand hygiene and fomite/high-touch surface disinfection. Conclusion: This study highlights the complex interplay between knowledge, attitudes, and practices in shaping public health behavior toward hMPX in the Philippines. Significant knowledge gaps and the mediating role of attitudes in influencing preventive practices underscore the need for targeted, stigma-free health communication strategies. Strengthening public understanding and perception through tailored interventions will be critical in mitigating hMPX transmission.