Healthcare professionals’ knowledge and attitudes towards Mpox and associated factors in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis (2025)

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aims Mpox is an infectious zoonotic disease that causes a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, fever, headache, myalgia, and fatigue. Healthcare professionals’ knowledge and attitudes are critical, as they are on the frontline in disease prevention and management. Although individual studies have been conducted, their findings are inconsistent. To address this gap, we aimed to estimate the pooled levels of knowledge and attitudes as well as associated factors related to Mpox. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted using Cochrane Library, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari-Research4Life, and Epistemonikos. Articles were identified using MeSH terms, entry terms, and keywords in combination with truncation and Boolean operators. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool was used to assess the quality of studies, and the PRISMA flow diagram and checklist were employed. Results Five studies involving 2,355 participants were included. The pooled estimates of knowledge and attitudes were 46.07% (95% CI: 34.89%–57.25%) and 47.05% (95% CI: 38.41%–55.69%), respectively. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q test and the I2 statistic. Age (26–30 years; OR = 2.35), being a physician (OR = 2.19), MSc and above (OR = 5.43), and receiving training (OR = 1.94) were associated with the level of knowledge. Receiving training (OR = 2.04) was associated with a positive attitude. Conclusions The estimated levels of knowledge and attitudes are suboptimal but should be interpreted with caution. Providing training and health education across different professional groups could play a crucial role in improving the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals.