Knowledge, attitude, and practice study regarding cholera among the people in Jazan city, KSA

BACKGROUND: Cholera is a contagious infection that can be fatal; in spite of this, it can be easily prevented by sticking to proper hygienic measures as well as administering cholera vaccine. However, prevention of cholera is highly dependent on the knowledge and attitude of the general population toward the symptoms and preventive measures of cholera, which is unclear in medical literature. OBJECTIVE: This survey analysis aims to explore the level of knowledge as well as attitude and practice of people in Jazan, Saudi Arbaia toward cholera infections. DESIGN AND SETTING: A self-administered structured questionnaire was distributed via online link to individuals living in Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. The survey included questions on knowledge about cholera symptoms, etiology, and prevention as well as attitude and practices of the responders on this type of infection in addition to sociodemographic data. Data analysis was done through SPSS program version 24. RESULTS: 400 participants responded to this questionnaire. The mean score for knowledge section was 1.86 ± 0.990, for practice section was 5.07 ± 1.353, and for attitude section was 6.14 ± 2.346, all of them were below average rating. There was statistically significant difference (P-value = 0.003) between different educational levels, with a positive correlation between educational level and level of knowledge about cholera. There was a statistically significant difference (P-value = 0.034) between different genders. Females showed a significantly improved practice towards cholera infection. CONCLUSION: The level of knowledge of the public in Saudi Arabia is poor. Also, the attitudes and practices of people in Jazan area, Saudi Arabia is considered unsatisfactory. Further studies in other regions of Saudi Arabia are highly recommended.