In recent years, infectious diseases have become an increasingly prominent topic of concern for both public health officials and the scientific community. Among these diseases, mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has emerged as a focal point of research, particularly in the context of its transmission dynamics, clinical manifestations, and public awareness. A recent cross-sectional study conducted by Ataç, Balcı Yapalak, and Hayran among university health science students in Türkiye sheds light on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning mpox within this demographic. The research is timely, as it coincides with heightened global attention to zoonotic diseases and their implications for public health.
The study surveyed health science students, a group typically expected to have a deeper understanding of health-related issues due to their academic training. Despite their educational background, the findings reveal a striking gap in knowledge about mpox itself. The results indicate that many students are not aware of the disease’s transmission routes, potential health consequences, and preventive measures. This lack of knowledge raises important questions about the effectiveness of current educational curricula and underscores the need for enhanced training in infectious disease awareness among future healthcare professionals.
In the face of outbreaks and the potential threat of mpox as a zoonotic disease, understanding the attitudes of health science students towards mpox becomes crucial. The study highlights varying levels of concern among participants, with factors such as geographical location, previous exposure to infectious diseases, and personal experience impacting their views. While some students express a high level of awareness about the seriousness of mpox, others dismiss its relevance, attributing it to distant regions or unrelated contexts. This discrepancy indicates the necessity for targeted educational interventions that can address knowledge gaps and cultivate a proactive attitude towards emerging infectious diseases among future practitioners.
The methodologies employed in the study are crucial for interpreting the results accurately. A cross-sectional design was utilized, allowing the researchers to capture a snapshot of attitudes and knowledge at a specific point in time. Surveys were utilized to collect data, incorporating both closed-ended and open-ended questions. This design is beneficial for identifying common themes and trends while also providing qualitative insights into the students’ perceptions of mpox. However, it also implies certain limitations, such as the inability to establish causation or to track changes in knowledge over time.
Interestingly, the study reveals that access to information plays a significant role in shaping the students’ understanding of mpox. Those who actively sought information from reputable sources demonstrated a higher level of knowledge compared to their peers who relied on social media or informal channels. This discrepancy points to the need for integrating more trustworthy resources into health education, as misinformation can easily proliferate in the digital age. Furthermore, universities should consider proactive measures to disseminate accurate information and facilitate discussions around emerging infectious diseases, particularly for students poised to enter the healthcare workforce.
The researchers also explore the practical implications of the knowledge and attitudes surrounding mpox. In clinical settings, health professionals are often required to make quick decisions based on their understanding of emerging diseases. Therefore, the study’s findings suggest that improving educational initiatives around infectious diseases could lead to better preparedness among healthcare workers. This preparedness would not only influence individual practice but could also have downstream effects on public health by reducing transmission rates and improving disease management during outbreaks.
Moreover, the psychological impact of mpox fears cannot be overlooked. The study indicates that students who express anxiety about potentially contracting mpox often exhibit avoidance behaviors, such as neglecting vaccinations or delaying seeking medical attention. Understanding and addressing these fears through comprehensive education can foster a healthier relationship with public health initiatives and encourage individuals to engage with preventive measures. A well-informed health science population could bridge the gap between public health campaigns and community-level behaviors.
Public health strategies must evolve in response to findings such as those presented in this research. For example, integrating mpox education into curricula and outreach programs specifically designed for health science students could serve to fortify their understanding and approach toward infectious diseases. Engaging experts in infectious disease both as educators and advisors could further enhance the relevance and accuracy of the information shared with these students.
Additionally, the study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing infectious diseases like mpox. Given that health science encompasses a variety of fields, collaboration between medical, nursing, and public health disciplines can foster a more comprehensive understanding of mpox’s implications on society. Such an approach can also normalize discussions around infectious diseases within academic settings, thereby reducing stigma and enhancing collective knowledge.
In summary, this study by Ataç and colleagues serves as a clarion call for enhanced education and awareness around mpox among health science students in Türkiye. The alarming gaps in knowledge and variable attitudes towards mpox suggest that immediate action is needed to cultivate a more informed healthcare workforce. As we grapple with the complexities of emerging infectious diseases, empowering students with the necessary tools, knowledge, and attitudes can lead to improved public health outcomes now and in the future.
The implications of this research extend beyond the borders of Türkiye, resonating globally as health systems everywhere face the ongoing challenge of zoonotic diseases. Fostering a younger generation of healthcare professionals who are well-versed in contemporary public health challenges is essential for building resilient health infrastructures capable of tackling future outbreaks effectively.
As the global community navigates the evolving landscape of infectious diseases, the insights offered by this study may serve as a model for similar research initiatives worldwide. By prioritizing knowledge and awareness within healthcare education, we can hope to cultivate a generation that is prepared, responsive, and passionate about safeguarding public health against the looming threats posed by infectious diseases like mpox.
Ultimately, this study underscores a vital truth: informed health science students can become not only better health professionals but also advocates for health literacy within their communities. By equipping them with the knowledge to recognize and address public health threats, we empower the next generation of healthcare leaders to create a healthier, more resilient world.
Subject of Research: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward mpox among university health science students in Türkiye.
Article Title: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward mpox among university health science students in Türkiye: a cross-sectional study.
Article References:
Ataç, Ö., Balcı Yapalak, A. & Hayran, O. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward mpox among university health science students in Türkiye: a cross-sectional study.
BMC Med Educ 25, 1532 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-025-08090-x
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12909-025-08090-x
Keywords: mpox, health science students, knowledge, attitudes, public health, infectious diseases.
