Abstract:

The recent closing down of schools in some African countries as a result of EBOLA crisis, brought about devastating consequences such as early pregnancies, child labour, forced marriages, physical and sexual abuse to name a few. Designing appropriate interventions for these problems, this study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and preventive practice of Senior Secondary School Students on Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria. The study used a multi-stage and proportionate sampling methods. A total of 460 semi-structured self-administered questionnaires were administered to consenting Senior Secondary School students. The findings of the study revealed that 100 per cent of the respondents had previously heard of EVD. Overall knowledge of EVD was poor 114 (24.8%) and fair for 290 (63%) and good for 56 (12.2%). The relationship between knowledge, practice and attitude score of respondents at their various departments (Science, Art and Commercial) were not statistically significant, setting (p = 0.005). However, the relationship between class of respondents and their attitude towards EVD were statistically significant setting (p = 0.005). Regular hand washing and use of sanitizers were stated as the most useful protective measures against EVD. Based on these findings, it is therefore essential that health education for the students on presentation and prevention of the disease be stressed and routinely taught at schools and the need for government to provide adequate water supply in each school.

Keywords: Attitude, Ebola Virus, Knowledge, Prevention Practice, Students.

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