International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Human Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is an infectious viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). Although MPX is not a new disease, but it was considered a geographically isolated disease until recently. The global spread of the disease has consequently created a cause for concern. Objectives: This study evaluated the variation in knowledge and preparedness for possible monkeypox outbreak among students of Basic Medical Science of Adeleke University, Ede and Osun State University, Osogbo. Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted using adapted questionnaire A sample size of 315 respondents was chosen within the two university using simple random sampling techniques
Result: Findings reveal that more than half of the respondents were aged 20-24 years, 186 (59.0%), in nursing department 309 (98.1%) . vast majority of the respondents had not attended training on monkeypox 294 (93.3%), more than 90% of respondent had heard about monkeypox prior to formal instruction, and 60–80% understood basic symptoms and transmission modes. In relation to knowledge only 37–45% of respondents could correctly answer detailed clinical or transmission scenario questions.
Conclusion: Despite high levels of reported awareness amongst Nursing, physiology and nutrition and dietitics students at Adeleke and Osun State universities, significant gaps persist in detailed knowledge, practical skills, and actual engagement in sustained preventive behaviours.