Determinants of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices toward Cholera Infection among University Students: A Cross-sectional Study from Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Introduction and Objectives: Cholera is an acute waterborne bacterial disease that remains a significant public health burden in developing countries. Recurrent outbreaks in Iraq highlight persistent infrastructural challenges and gaps in preventive measures. This study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding cholera among university students in Iraqi Kurdistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between January 10, 2025, and March 1, 2025. A total of 683 university students from the University of Zakho and University of Duhok, Iraqi Kurdistan were recruited. Data were collected through direct face-to-face interviews and electronically via Google Forms. The survey consisted of 31 items organized into four sections: demographic characteristics and KAP. Results: The mean age of the participants was 21.01 ± 1.6 standard deviation (SD) years, and about half (51.68%) were female. The mean overall KAP score among our students was 19.89 ± 3.09 SD out of 27, corresponding to a mean KAP percentage of (73.67%). Based on the KAP score classification, (34.26%) of the students were categorized as having good KAP levels. Higher KAP scores were observed among older students, females, and students from College of Medicine, with statistically significant differences ( P = 0.017, P = 0.033, and P ≤ 0.0001), respectively. Conclusions: University students in the current study exhibited satisfactory levels of KAP regarding cholera, albeit still not optimal. Notable gaps in students’ KAP were identified. Therefore, educational campaigns and programs should be designed and conceptualized to address these gaps, enhance students’ awareness, and promote better practice.