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Behavioral & Social Science

Category: Mpox

(P200) Mpox knowledge and vaccine willingness among a representative analysis of adults in Pennsylvania

Tuesday, July 25, 2023
16:00 – 18:00 CST
Abstract:

Introduction: Little has been reported about mpox (formerly monkeypox) knowledge and vaccine willingness among the general population. We sought to collect timely data on mpox knowledge, perceived risk, and vaccine willingness among a representative sample of Pennsylvania adults.

Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey representative of the general Pennsylvania population was conducted in September 2022. Four survey items were included to assess the population’s knowledge of monkeypox symptoms and risk related to the current mpox outbreak, as well as vaccine willingness if at risk for mpox. Data analyses included descriptive statistics and logistic regressions.

Results: Out of the 1039 respondents (average age 48.8 years), 50.8% were cisgender women, 48.3% were cisgender men, and 0.9% were transgender/gender non-binary. Of male participants for whom sexual orientation was known, 7.2% were MSM. Few respondents reported no knowledge of mpox symptoms (14.2%) or transmission modalities (12.5%). Those who perceived themselves at moderate/high risk were more likely to report knowing mpox symptoms (aOR=2) vs no risk. Men who have sex with men (MSM) were more likely to know that mpox can mimic a STI (aOR=3.125), less likely to report not knowing any modes of transmission (aOR=0.17), and more willing to be vaccinated (aOR=4.35) than women who have sex with men. Comparisons were also made against men who have sex with women and while significant in the unadjusted model, was not statistically significant in the adjusted model. Self-perceived mpox risk was associated with willingness to get vaccinated (aOR low risk vs no risk = 3.45 [2.42-4.92]; aOR moderate/high risk vs no risk = 9.93 [5.81-16.99]).

Conclusions: Knowledge of mpox symptoms among a representative sample of Pennsylvania adults is strong, specifically among high-risk groups. However, their knowledge lacks a nuanced understanding specific to the current outbreak where STI-like symptoms are a predominant presentation. Willingness to receive a mpox vaccine is highest in MSM, and those that perceive themselves at highest risk. These findings show a stronger overall general population knowledge of symptoms and risk than previously cited work but highlight the need for more education on symptoms of the current outbreak and research on vaccine hesitancy.