CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
A health emergency is described as an event or an imminent danger of a disease or health condition caused by bio-terrorism, epidemic or pandemic diseases, infectious agents, or biological toxins. Such emergencies pose a significant risk to human life, potentially resulting in a large number of fatalities or causing long-term disabilities (World Health Organisation (WHO), 2019). These emergencies are characterized not only by their causes and precipitating events but also by the health consequences they bring. An emergent situation arises when its health impacts have the potential to overwhelm the ordinary capabilities of the community in addressing them (Nelson et al., 2007).
Catastrophic events like pandemics, natural disasters, and the emergence or re-emergence of highly dangerous diseases can affect multiple countries simultaneously, as demonstrated by the notable example of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past years, there have been more than 1200 outbreaks of epidemic-prone diseases in 188 countries worldwide. Large-scale epidemics cause widespread suffering and death, particularly impacting the most vulnerable and impoverished communities, and triggering social, economic, and political disruptions.
Around 70-80% of high-risk pathogens have the ability to spread between animals and humans (known as zoonotic diseases). Some of these pathogens are identified, but many others remain unidentified, circulating among various animal species worldwide (WHO, 2023a).
Health systems have a vital function in handling risks and reducing the impacts of emergencies and disasters related to all types of hazards. Within this context, the health sector takes a leadership role in managing infectious risks and swiftly responding to outbreaks. Moreover, it plays a critical part in preventing and lessening the health repercussions of emergencies arising from natural, technological, and societal sources.
Despite numerous countries' endeavors to enhance their ability to manage health emergencies through the implementation of the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and improvements in their health systems, specific communities still face significant vulnerability (WHO, 2023b). How well a community responds to such emergencies depends on various factors, including their level of knowledge, attitudes, and preparedness. In recent times, the world has experienced significant health emergencies, like the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of community knowledge and attitudes.
During the pandemic, misinformation, fear, and misconceptions led to people not following health protocols, making it difficult to control the virus's spread (Freckelton, 2020). Moreover, natural disasters, epidemics, and other disease outbreaks have historically tested communities' resilience and preparedness.
Community attitudes toward health emergencies play a crucial role in determining their adherence to preventive measures and cooperation with health authorities. Positive attitudes, such as trust in healthcare professionals and institutions, willingness to follow public health guidelines, and a sense of shared responsibility, can strengthen community resilience and response (Skirbekk et al., 2023). On the other hand, negative attitudes, like skepticism about the severity of the situation or reluctance to comply with recommended measures, can hinder containment efforts and worsen the impact of the emergency. Understanding the community's knowledge and attitudes regarding health emergencies is vital for effective preparedness and response. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude of the community toward health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Among all health emergency response agencies, hospital is the key place to provide medical and psychological services (Hui et al., 2007), and medical staffs are the main force involved in response to health emergencies.
As a major healthcare facility, Central Hospital, Abuja plays a critical role in managing and responding to health emergencies in the area. The Central Hospital serves as the primary point of contact for the community during times of crisis. The hospital's response capabilities and the community's understanding of health emergency situations significantly influence the overall outcome of such events. Previous experiences, both in Nigeria and globally, have highlighted the importance of proactive community engagement, risk communication, and education to mitigate the adverse effects of health emergencies (Khan et al., 2022).
To effectively manage health emergencies, it is vital to understand the level of knowledge and attitudes of the community surrounding Central Hospital, Abuja. Assessing the community's awareness of different health emergency situations and their perceptions of the hospital's responsiveness will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the current emergency preparedness and response systems.
1.3 Aim of the Study
The primary aim of this research is to assess the knowledge and attitude of the community toward health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja.
1.4 Objectives of the Study:
The study had the following specific objectives:
- To evaluate the level of community awareness about different health emergency situations.
- To assess the perception of the community towards the responsiveness of Central Hospital, Abuja, during health emergencies.
- To identify the sources of information that the community relies on during health emergencies.
- To examine the community's attitudes toward preventive measures and compliance with health protocols during emergencies.
- To determine the relationship between community's knowledge and attitudes towards health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja.
1.5 Research Questions:
To guide the study, the following research questions will be addressed:
- What is the level of community awareness about different health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja?
- How do community members perceive the responsiveness of Central Hospital, Abuja, during health emergencies?
- What are the primary sources of information that the community relies on during health emergencies?
- What are the attitudes of the community toward preventive measures and compliance with health protocols during emergencies?
- What is the relationship between community's knowledge and attitudes towards health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja?
1.6 Research Hypothesis:
H0: There is no statistically significant relationship between the community's knowledge and attitude regarding health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja.
Ha: There is a statistically significant relationship between the community's knowledge and attitude regarding health emergency situations in Central Hospital, Abuja.
1.7 Justification of the Study
Understanding the knowledge and attitudes of the community is crucial for health authorities and policymakers to develop tailored strategies for health emergency preparedness and response. This study's findings can guide public health interventions to enhance community engagement, communication, and compliance during health crises, ultimately improving overall health outcomes.
1.8 Scope of the Study
The scope of this study focuses on assessing the knowledge and attitudes of the community residing around Central Hospital, Abuja, regarding health emergency situations.
