ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES (KAP) OF LASSA FEVER AMONG SELECTED INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLIS, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA.

Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness that poses significant public health challenges, particularly in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of Lassa fever among selected IDPs in Maiduguri Metropolis. A structured questionnaire was developed and administered to 392 Internally Displaced Persons in Maiduguri Metropolis. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics to summarize KAP levels, and associations between sociodemographic factors and KAP components were determined using chi-square. General awareness of Lassa fever was high (96.6%), but specific knowledge about transmission (58.7%) and prevention (62.3%) varied, with notable gaps in understanding among certain demographic groups. Attitudes toward the seriousness of Lassa fever were positive (71.4%) overall, but practices such as proper food storage (60.2%) and rodent control (54.8%) were inconsistently followed. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between sociodemographic factors—such as age, education, and occupation—and levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The study recommended that targeted public health interventions addressing identified gaps in knowledge and practice are essential for improving disease control in high-risk environments such as IDP camps. Enhanced educational initiatives focusing on rodent control, hygiene practices, and healthcare access are recommended to mitigate the transmission of Lassa fever in these vulnerable settings.