Knowledge and Attitudes of primary Schools Teachers toward Viral Hepatitis A in Assiut City

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis is a common and severe health problem. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is the most common cause of viral hepatitis. The incidence of infection has a strong relation with sanitary and environmental conditions and the socioeconomic level. Most infections occur between 5 –15 years of age. Aim: To assess knowledge and attitudes of primary schools teachers toward viral hepatitis A in Assiut City. This study is a descriptive cross-sectional design and was carried out in primary schools in Assiut City. The sample of this study consisted of 245 primary school teachers. Tools: - Two tools were used in this study included a self-administrated questionnaire sheet. The first tool: to assess the teacher''s knowledge about viral hepatitis A. The second tool: to assess the teacher''s attitudes toward viral hepatitis A. The results of this study showed a generally poor level of knowledge (67.8%) and a positive attitude (72.2%) toward viral hepatitis A as reported by teachers. Conclusion: based on these findings of the present study it was concluded that teachers had poor knowledge and positive attitudes toward viral hepatitis A. Recommendations: Educational programs are necessary to upgrade the level of knowledge of the teachers toward viral hepatitis A in primary schools at Assiut City.