Perception and Prevention Practices Against Ebola Virus Disease by Bush Meat Handlers in Ibadan, Nigeria

The expanding bushmeat market in Africa contributes to the transmission of zoonotic diseases which may lead to global pandemics. This is exemplified in Nigeria where the first outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), which originated from an imported case, was reported in July, 2014. Hence, this study was aimed at understanding the perception and practices of bushmeat handlers in Ibadan. Exploratory design was used to obtain qualitative data from purposively selected populations. Twenty-five bushmeat handlers were interviewed. Data revealed high level of awareness about EVD among most of the handlers. The EVD outbreak, which was perceived as a conspiracy, raised some level of anxiety among the populace because the disease is incurable. While some respondents have changed their lifestyles, others were not ready to change. The modes of prevention of the disease identified by the respondents ranged from hand washing to use of gloves. We conclude that continuous public health education and enlightenment about EVD is very important.

Keywords
Bushmeat; Ebola Virus Disease; Nigeria; Bush meat handlers; Disease outbreak; Perception; Prevention