Community Perspectives of Ebola Viral Disease in High-Risk Transmission Border Regions of Tanzania: A Qualitative Inquiry

Abstract

Abstract Background: Tanzania faces ever-rising concerns due to the recurrence of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. This necessitates a better understanding of the community perspectives in high-risk regions for effective risk communication and preparedness. Methods: This rapid ethnographic assessment study used explorative qualitative methods to collect data. People from diverse backgrounds participated in 59 in-depth interviews, 57 Key Informant interviews, and 35 focus group discussions. Data was analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Findings: The study found high awareness of EVD and its symptoms, with radio and television emerging as the primary source of information. However, participants had mixed perceptions of EVD’s cause and transmission, with some believing that bats, monkeys, and wild animal meat caused it. In contrast, others associated the disease with high fever, a dirty environment, changing dietary patterns, and the COVID-19 virus. Physical contact with an infected person, eating cascades of infected wild animals, and contact with an infected person’s fluids were perceived as EVD transmission agents. Due to their daily activities, women, school children, boda-boda riders, and fishermen were perceived as the most susceptible to EVD infection. Preventive measures included avoiding physical contact, touching fluids, and refraining from eating wild animal meat. Prompt reporting of suspected cases to health facilities was reported as crucial for earlier outbreak identification and containment. Conclusion: The high-risk regions of Tanzania had a high level of awareness and perceived susceptibility to EVD, coupled with varying degrees of misperception about the etiology and its transmission. To improve community perspectives and preparedness in the case of an outbreak, there is a need for ongoing risk communication and involvement in EVD prevention and responses.