Zika Virus Knowledge, Perception, Belief, Attitude, and Preventive Practices among Pregnant Women in Plateau State, Nigeria: Public Health Implications

Abstract

In this study, 324 pregnant women who visited prenatal clinics in Plateau State, Nigeria, had their knowledge, perception, attitude, and preventive actions regarding Zika virus (ZIKV) infection evaluated. Between July 2022 and January 2023, we collected data using a structured questionnaire and a cross-sectional descriptive design. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used to analyze the data; P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results showed that 90.1% of participants lacked knowledge about ZIKV, indicating a significant knowledge gap. The Northern district had the lowest level of knowledge, with an overall knowledge rate of 84.6%, and a statistically significant difference between senatorial districts (P=0.001). Inadequate perception was also reported by 82.4% of respondents; however, district-specific differences were not statistically significant (P=0.064). Most participants held negative opinions about ZIKV (54.6%), with significant differences observed between districts (P=0.001). One particularly concerning finding was that 53.4% of women would not promote condom use or abstinence with a partner who visited an affected area, and 91.0% of women disagreed with delaying conception due to ZIKV concerns. Despite these disparities, a more positive trend in preventive practices was observed; 39.5% of women demonstrated good preventive behaviors, with notable variation among districts (P=0.001). The study’s findings reveal that pregnant women in the area have significant gaps in their understanding, attitudes, and perceptions about ZIKV. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted public health initiatives to increase awareness and protect maternal and fetal health, especially concerning less-known transmission routes and personal protective measures.