Awareness of Medical Students and Practitioners Toward Mpox in Jordan: A National Cross-sectional Study

Background: Following the first confirmed Mpox case in Jordan in August 2022, assessing healthcare personnel’s knowledge became increasingly important. Given the role of healthcare professionals in epidemic response, this study aimed to assess the awareness of medical students (MS) and practicing physicians in Jordan toward the Mpox virus. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of MS, general practitioners, residents, and specialists in Jordan. A 53-question survey was developed using data from the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and relevant literature. It covered sociodemographics, work-related characteristics, and knowledge about Mpox. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25.0, with a P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 423 healthcare professionals participated. Only 7.3% had received information about Mpox during medical studies. Most participants demonstrated low levels of Mpox knowledge. Only 2.1% correctly identified the natural host and incubation period. About 49.2% believed Mpox and smallpox share similar symptoms. Specialists had significantly higher knowledge (crude odds ratio [OR]= 7.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.68–31.84, P = 0.008). After adjusting for demographic and professional variables, participants over 30 years old were more likely to have higher knowledge (adjusted OR = 130.76, 95% CI = 14.18–1205.8, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Mpox awareness among Jordanian MS and physicians is low. Immediate action is needed to improve education and information dissemination about Mpox. Enhancing physicians’ ability to recognize and report Mpox cases will rely heavily on targeted training and awareness programs.