Healthcare Worker Perspectives on Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chiroma Ward, Nigeria

Background: Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases continue to pose significant public health threats globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Healthcare workers, as frontline responders, play a critical role in disease detection, containment, and response. Understanding their knowledge, perception, preparedness, and the institutional barriers they face is crucial for informing strategic public health interventions. Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, perception, preparedness, and systemic challenges related to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases among healthcare workers in Chiroma Ward, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 111 healthcare workers selected from various professional cadres using a structured, pretested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise data, while Chi-square tests determined associations between sociodemographic variables and awareness/knowledge levels. Results: The findings showed that 51.4% of respondents were aware of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, with Lassa fever being the most frequently recognised (38.7%). A majority (59.5%) reported receiving formal training; however, only 35.1% felt adequately equipped to respond to outbreaks. Facility preparedness was rated as well prepared (32.4%) or moderately prepared (28.8%) by most respondents. Institutional barriers such as inadequate funding (39.6%) and lack of PPE (25.2%) were frequently reported. Statistically significant associations were found between knowledge levels and factors such as age, marital status, cadre, and educational qualification (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although moderate levels of knowledge and preparedness were observed, there are still gaps in personal readiness, institutional support, and inter-agency collaboration. Addressing these barriers through targeted training, improved funding, and systemic policy reforms is essential for strengthening epidemic preparedness in Chiroma Ward and similar settings.