Knowledge, Attitudes and Prevention Practices of the Populations of Tchaourou and Parakou (Benin) Regarding Monkeypox

Introduction: <i>Monkeypox</i><i> </i>is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that poses a serious threat to public health, particularly in West Africa. A precise understanding of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of the population is essential for designing effective community-based responses. This study aimed to assess the level of KAP in the population and to identify factors independently associated with good KAP. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted in Tchaourou and Parakou, in the Borgou department of Benin, between February and April 2025. A total of 427 people were included. Cumulative scores for knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices regarding monkeypox were calculated. Three linear regression models were used to identify factors associated with good knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results: Mean score of knowledge was 56.0%, mean score of attitude 67.0%, and mean score of practice only 44.3%. Factors significantly associated with an increase in the level of knowledge were higher education level (coefficient = 3.22; 95% CI: [1.98; 5.24]) and access to media (coefficient = 1.95; 95% CI: [1.19; 3.21]). Positive attitude was related to good knowledge (coefficient = 1.88; 95% CI: [1.26; 2.80]) and age (coefficient = 1.65; 95% CI: [1.09–2.50]). Regarding good practices, a positive attitude (coefficient = 2.85; 95% CI: [1.97; 4.13]) and female sex (coefficient = 1.62; 95% CI: [1.11; 2.37]) were significant predictors. Conversely, being a farmer/livestock breeder (coefficient = -0.35; 95% CI [-0.74; -0.22]) and living in a rural area (coefficient = -0.59; 95% CI [-0.81; -0.37]) were associated with poor practices. Conclusion: Although the overall attitude is relatively positive, this study reveals significant gaps in knowledge and, especially, in the adoption of effective preventive practices. Targeted interventions are recommended, including the use of communication channels adapted to low-education populations and communication strategies for behavioral change.