Assessment of Mpox Awareness and Preparedness among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The recent global re-emergence of monkeypox (Mpox), a zoonotic Orthopoxvirus, has heightened public health concerns, placing the healthcare workforce at the forefront of outbreak management. Assessing their preparedness and readiness, especially in tertiary care hospitals, is essential for effective early detection, prevention, and control of the disease.

Material & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad, to assess the awareness, preparedness, and readiness of healthcare workers, including both clinical and non-clinical staff, regarding monkeypox (Mpox) outbreaks. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a stratified random sample of doctors, nurses, paramedics, and supporting staff.  Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, ANOVA, and multivariate logistic regression to identify key factors influencing preparedness and readiness.

Results: Among 395 participants, moderate awareness (mean score 5.41/8) and preparedness (mean score 9.91/17) levels were found. Females, nurses, and paramedics exhibited significantly greater awareness and preparedness (p < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed between awareness and preparedness (ρ = 0.305, p < 0.001). Gender and profession emerged as significant predictors of both awareness and preparedness in logistic regression analysis (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The study highlights significant gaps in Mpox awareness, preparedness, and readiness among healthcare workers, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted, profession-specific training programs to enhance both preparedness and readiness for effective outbreak response.