2023 Fiscal Year Research-status Report
Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices
| Project/Area Number |
19K19467
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| Research Institution | Okayama University |
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Principal Investigator |
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| Project Period (FY) |
2019-04-01 – 2025-03-31
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| Keywords | Ebola conspiracy theory / Poverty / Rumors / Socio-cultural problem / Ebola business / Distrust of authorities / Community mistrust / Trust-building |
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| Outline of Annual Research Achievements |
During the peak of the Ebola outbreak, we conducted Ebola KAP studies using mixed methods. The qualitative study was conducted nationwide, whereas the quantitative study was conducted in selected provinces for practical reasons. We analyzed the qualitative data on Ebola KAP and published several articles in peer-reviewed journals, including systematic reviews. People living in Africa generally, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) specifically, need a better understanding of Ebola. Misconceptions and risky behaviors related to Ebola must be addressed in the DRC to prepare for future outbreaks. In the DRC, it is common for people to touch Ebola-infected corpses during burial practices. Although regions affected by Ebola are aware that the disease can be transmitted from person to person, some individuals still acknowledge washing and handling the bodies of Ebola victims.
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| Current Status of Research Progress |
Current Status of Research Progress
3: Progress in research has been slightly delayed.
Reason
In 2022 and 2023, the COVID-19 pandemic prevented us from conducting surveys in the Democratic Republic of Congo following the peak of the outbreak.
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| Strategy for Future Research Activity |
We are currently analyzing quantitative data alongside qualitative data (on nurses' Ebola KAP) and preparing manuscripts for publication in international peer-reviewed journals.
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| Causes of Carryover |
This amount of money will be used to cover the article processing charges for publications.
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