Analysis of current status of knowledge, attitudes, and influencing factors regarding chikungunya fever among medical staff in Chengdu, Sichuan province, China: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Chikungunya (CHIK) is an emerging mosquito-borne disease with increasing importation risk in China. In non-endemic settings, delayed detection may facilitate local transmission, making healthcare workers’ knowledge and attitudes critical for rapid response. Objective To assess CHIK-related knowledge and attitudes among medical personnel in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, and identify factors associated with positive prevention attitudes. Methods A cross-sectional, self-administered online survey was executed from July 30 to August 6, 2025, targeting medical workers across 20 healthcare institutions in Chengdu using the Wenjuanxing platform. The questionnaire gathered demographic information, CHIK-related training exposure (yes/no), and assessments of knowledge and attitudes. Knowledge was assessed using 15 items (range 0–15; 1 point awarded for each right response). Attitudes were evaluated using Likert-type items; a cumulative attitude score of ≥20 signified a favorable attitude. Group disparities were analyzed with Chi-square tests alongside suitable parametric and nonparametric assessments. Hierarchical logistic regression (Block 1: demographics/occupational characteristics; Block 2: training; Block 3: knowledge score) was employed to ascertain factors correlated with positive attitudes. Results 1,092 questionnaires were included, yielding an effective response rate of 90.10%; 83.70% indicated they had received training relevant. The average knowledge score was 11.66 ± 2.15. Despite high performance in primary prevention and clinical management, significant deficiencies were noted in early detection and surveillance-related operational knowledge: merely 42.58% accurately interpreted the RT-PCR Ct criterion, 54.85% recognized suspected cases, 56.14% comprehended diagnostic criteria, and 59.80% were aware of the 24 h online reporting requirement. Knowledge scores were elevated among individuals with advanced education, physicians, tertiary hospital personnel, and those who had training (p < 0.05). Attitude scores varied according to age, job type, hospital type, practice category, years of experience, and professional title (p < 0.05). In hierarchical logistic regression, training (OR = 3.971, p < 0.001) and elevated knowledge scores (OR per point = 1.130, p < 0.001) were independently linked to a favorable prevention-and-control attitude. Conclusion Chengdu medical personnel demonstrated general CHIK knowledge and positive attitudes, yet significant operational gaps persist in early detection and reporting protocols. Training and knowledge are key determinants of favorable attitudes, highlighting the need for standardized, process-oriented training emphasizing diagnostic and reporting procedures.