Knowledge, perceptions and media use of the Dutch general public and healthcare workers regarding Ebola, 2014.
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ABSTRACT: Background
The Ebola outbreak in West-Africa triggered risk communication activities to promote adequate preventive behaviour in the Netherlands. Our study investigated the level of knowledge, perceptions, and media use regarding Ebola.Methods
In December 2014, an online questionnaire was administered to the Dutch population (n = 526) and Health Care Workers (HCW) (n = 760).Results
The mean knowledge score (range 0-15) of HCW (m = 13.3;SD = 1.4) was significantly higher than the general public (m = 10.8;SD = 2.0). No significant difference was found in perceived severity and susceptibility. Perceived fear of the general public (m = 2.5; SD = 0.8) was significantly higher than among HCW (m = 2.4; SD = 0.7). Respondents primarily used television to obtain information.Conclusions
While Ebola was perceived severe, it did not lead to excessive fear or perceived susceptibility for developing the disease. Nonetheless, our research showed that knowledge with respect to human-to-human transmission is low, while this is crucial to complying with preventive measures. Our study reveals priorities for improving risk communication.
SUBMITTER: Schol LGC
PROVIDER: S-EPMC5759181 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Publications
Knowledge, perceptions and media use of the Dutch general public and healthcare workers regarding Ebola, 2014.
Schol Lianne G C LGC Mollers Madelief M Swaan Corien M CM Beaujean Desirée J M A DJMA Wong Albert A Timen Aura A
BMC infectious diseases 20180108 1
<h4>Background</h4>The Ebola outbreak in West-Africa triggered risk communication activities to promote adequate preventive behaviour in the Netherlands. Our study investigated the level of knowledge, perceptions, and media use regarding Ebola.<h4>Methods</h4>In December 2014, an online questionnaire was administered to the Dutch population (n = 526) and Health Care Workers (HCW) (n = 760).<h4>Results</h4>The mean knowledge score (range 0-15) of HCW (m = 13.3;SD = 1.4) was significantly higher t ...[more]
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