Knowledge, perceptions and media use of the Dutch general public and healthcare workers regarding Ebola, 2014.

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.

SUBMITTER: Schol LGC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5759181 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature