Knowledge and Attitudes of Primary Health Care Workers toward Environmental Surveillance for Polio Eradication in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Environmental surveillance (ES) is a strategy for detecting poliovirus circulation, especially in areas where silent transmission may occur. This study assessed knowledge and attitudes of primary health care workers (PHCWs) toward environmental surveillance for polio eradication in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State. A cross-sectional descriptive design was used, involving 179 PHCWs selected through multistage sampling across Ilorin South, Ilorin East, and Ilorin West Local Government Areas. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS Version 25. Descriptive statistics summarized frequencies and percentages, while chi-square tests assessed associations at a 5% significance level. Findings showed that knowledge of environmental surveillance was generally high: 162 (90.5%) had prior awareness of ES, 150 (83.8%) correctly identified its primary purpose, and 142 (79.3%) recognized sewage as the correct sample source. Overall, 109 (60.9%) demonstrated good knowledge of ES. A significant association was found between knowledge level and years of experience (x² = 9.74, df = 6, p = 0.04), suggesting that longer service enhances understanding. Attitudes toward environmental surveillance were positive. Most respondents, 170 (95.0%), acknowledged its importance for polio eradication, 156 (87.2%) expressed willingness to participate in ES activities, and 174 (97.2%) supported further training. Overall, 141 (78.8%) had positive attitudes. No significant association was observed between attitudes and professional roles (x² = 5.71, df = 6, p = 0.36). The study concludes that PHCWs in Ilorin have substantial knowledge and favourable attitudes toward environmental surveillance for polio eradication, highlighting the need for continued training and support to optimize ES implementation.