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Public understanding and awareness of and response to monkeypox virus outbreak: A cross‐sectional survey of the most affected communities in the United Kingdom during the 2022 public health emergency.

Authors :
Paparini, Sara
Whitacre, Ryan
Smuk, Melanie
Thornhill, John
Mwendera, Chikondi
Strachan, Sophie
Nutland, Will
Orkin, Chloe
Source :
HIV Medicine. May2023, Vol. 24 Issue 5, p544-557. 14p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Objectives: Our objective was to examine the public response to public health and media messaging during the human monkeypox virus (MPXV) outbreak in the UK, focusing on at‐risk communities. Methods: A co‐produced, cross‐sectional survey was administered in June and July 2022 using community social media channels and the Grindr dating app. Basic descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and odds ratio p values are presented. Results: Of 1932 survey respondents, 1750 identified as men, 88 as women, and 64 as gender non‐conforming. Sexual identity was described as gay/lesbian/queer (80%), bisexual (12%), heterosexual (4%), and pansexual (2%); 39% were aged <40 years; 71% self‐identified as White, 3% as Black, 8% as Asian, 2%as LatinX, and 11% as 'Mixed or Other' heritage groups. In total, 85% were employed and 79% had completed higher education. A total of 7% of respondents identified themselves as living with HIV. Overall, 34% reported limited understanding of public health information, 52% considered themselves at risk, 61% agreed that people with MPXV should isolate for 21 days, 49% reported they would first attend a sexual health clinic if symptomatic, 86% reported they would accept a vaccine, and 59% believed that MPXV originated from animals. The most trusted sources of information were healthcare professionals (37%), official health agencies (29%), and mainstream media (12%). Conclusions: Vaccine acceptability was very high, yet the understanding and acceptance of public health information varied. Social determinants of health inequalities already shaping the UK landscape risk were compounded in this new emergency. Engagement with structurally disadvantaged members of affected communities and better dissemination of public health messaging by trusted healthcare professionals are essential for the public health response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14642662
Volume :
24
Issue :
5
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
HIV Medicine
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
163704557
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/hiv.13430