Perceptions and practices related to lassa fever transmission and prevention among rural residents of Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo state, Nigeria: a community-based cross-sectional study

Background: Lassa fever remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, especially in rural areas where environmental factors, hygiene behaviours and socio-cultural behaviours can affect the exposure and prevention. The aim of the study was to assess the community perceptions and self-reported practices about Lassa fever transmission and prevention in rural communities in Akoko South West local government area. Methods: A community-based descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted between March 2021 and May 2021 among 210 adult residents of selected rural communities in Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, perceptions and self-reported practices related to Lassa fever transmission and prevention. Responses were measured using a three-point Likert scale and analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square (χ²) tests, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Most respondents perceived rats in households (84.3%) and dirty environments (92.4%) as contributors to Lassa fever transmission. Poor hygiene practices were perceived as a risk by 63.8% of respondents, while 51.0% perceived rat consumption as a risk behaviour. Environmental factors (χ²=20.19, p<0.05), poor hygiene practices (χ²=18.72, p<0.05), and cultural practices (χ²=21.34, p<0.05) were significantly associated with perceived transmission. Environmental sanitation (85.2%), avoidance of harmful cultural practices (70.5%), and early diagnosis and treatment (83.8%) were significantly associated with perceived prevention (p<0.05). Conclusions: Community perceptions and self-reported practices play an important role in Lassa fever prevention in rural endemic settings. The findings support integrated public health interventions that combine environmental sanitation, hygiene promotion, culturally sensitive risk communication, and strengthened primary healthcare services.