Community knowledge, attitudes and practices towards Lassa hemorrhagic fever in Natitingou, Northern Benin

Introduction: Lassa hemorrhagic fever remains a concern in Benin. The risk of transmission is primarily related to population behavioral factors. This study aimed to assess KAP in a community in northern Benin. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2025 in Natitingou in the Atacora department and involved 309 adult subjects. Sociodemographic and environmental data, as well as knowledge, attitudes, and practices, were collected. A score was calculated for each component. Factors associated with a good score were analyzed using a logistic regression model. Results: A total of 66.5% of the surveyed subjects had good knowledge, 52.9% good attitudes and 43.7% good practices. Socioeconomic level (AOR = 1.45 [1.22-3.67]) and education level (AOR = 1.74 [1.12-2.46]) were associated with good knowledge. Farmers (AOR = 2.59 [1.93-4.08]) and married people (AOR = 1.25 [1.11-2.53]) had a higher probability of having a bad attitude. Bad practices were related to age (AOR = 2.01 [1.52-3.86]), household size ≥ 7 (AOR = 1.81 [1.14-3.99]) and farmer occupation (AOR = 2.40 [1.30-2.91]). Conclusion: Some lifestyle habits among populations still favor the transmission of Lassa fever, despite good knowledge of the disease. It is useful to engage decision-makers and community leaders to achieve the goal of behavior change.