Media Public Enlightenment on Hepatitis and Audience Awareness of Preventive Measures and Management Strategies in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
The study investigated media public enlightenment on Hepatitis and audience awareness of preventive measures and management strategies in Ebonyi state. The Health Belief Model and Agenda setting theories were used while survey method was used in the study. The population of the study was 2880.400 which represent people living across the three senatorial zones in Ebonyi state, with the sample size of 400 arrived at with the use of Taro Yamane formula. Questionnaires served as instrument for data collection. Out of the 400 copies distributed, 350 copies were retrieved and analysed using Findings which show that majority of the respondents have the knowledge of Hepatitis through different media while some were informed by health workers, peer groups and one on one interaction. Despite the level of awareness, majority are yet to be tested and vaccinated, or are aware of precautionary measures to stay safe. The study further revealed that the level of awareness on Hepatitis Virus is low compared to its devastating effect and suggests more awareness through the social media, TV talk shows, Radio gingles, billboards, hand bills, door to door campaigns, etc. The study recommends that government and NGOs should sponsored more regularly, different media awareness outreaches to educate the masses towards the prevention and transmission of Hepatitis virus and to sponsor massive testing so as to detect the virus early for vaccination, effective management and treatment.