Human-monkey interactions and zoonotic disease risk in an urban Nigerian community: A cross-sectional study

Zoonotic diseases, transmitted between animals and humans, pose a growing threat to public health, particularly in regions where urbanization increases human-wildlife interactions. This study assessed public awareness and risk perception regarding zoonotic disease transmission between humans and monkeys in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria—a region where such encounters are increasingly common. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected via a structured online questionnaire administered to 448 residents representing diverse age groups, occupations, and education levels. Findings revealed that 89.1% of participants had encountered monkeys, mainly in residential areas, farms, and schools. Although 85.9% were aware of zoonotic diseases, knowledge was concentrated on high-profile infections such as monkeypox (72.9%) and Ebola (35.6%), with limited awareness of tuberculosis (11.9%) and HIV (3.4%). Most respondents correctly identified direct transmission routes such as contaminated food, contact with saliva or urine, and bites or scratches, but only 14.1% recognized airborne transmission. Risk perception was moderate, with 56.3% acknowledging a significant threat of zoonotic transmission. However, preventive behaviours were often limited to avoidance, and only 42.9% of those attacked by monkeys sought medical treatment. A majority (59.4%) expressed dissatisfaction with government and health authority interventions, although 75% showed willingness to participate in public health campaigns. This study underscores the need for intensified public health education and intersectoral collaboration to address zoonotic risks. Effective community-based interventions are essential to bridge knowledge gaps and promote proactive health-seeking behaviour in the face of increasing human-wildlife contact.