A Cross-Sectional Study on Knowledge and Attitude about Shingles in UAE

ABSTRACT Description: Shingles, also known as herpes zoster (CDC, 2021) is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus which produces painful rashes and potential complications. For this reason, it is important to know what the public knows and thinks about shingles so they can be better informed about shingles and vaccination efforts (WHO, 2021). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent of knowledge and attitudes of people in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) about shingles. Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted between January 2025 and February 2025 using a self administered questionnaire adapted from a previous validated study and translated into the Arabic. It looked into demographic information, knowledge about shingles, opinion on vaccination, and seeking care behaviors. They sampled N = 250 (n; 125 male; n; 125 female) UAE residents. To determine statistically associated demographic causes of shingles awareness, SPSS was used to perform statistical analysis including descriptive statistic, chi square test, and logistic regression (Miller, 2021). Conclusion: A general lack of awareness among UAE residents about shingles was found in the results of the study. For example, a considerably large number of respondents were not familiar with the disease, its symptoms, and treatable (Smith et al., 2020). Shingles may be underestimated by many as they were unaware of the vaccine (Jones, 2019). Some respondents showed reluctance to the vaccine because of misconceptions about the necessity and safety of the vaccine (Brown and Green, 2022). Demographic factors such as age,education, and healthcare acecss were key to varying levels of knowledge (Lee & Thompson, 2020). The findings suggest shingles specific public health campaign that will enhance knowledge and attitude of shingles in UAE (WHO, 2021). Shingles prevention is also a matter that should be educated and advocated by healthcare providers for their patients, stressing the need for vaccination (CDC, 2021). In order to bridge knowledge gaps and improve public health outcomes regarding shingles, further research and policy related thereto are recommended. Keywords: Shingles, Varicella Zoster, Knowledge and Attitude, Public Awareness, Vaccination, Preventive Healthcare, UAE Population, Cross-Sectional Study, Infectious Diseases.