Mpox Knowledge Among Black Young Adults in the Southern United States.

Abstract

PURPOSE: Mpox disproportionately impacts Black people and young adults, yet the beliefs and knowledge of mpox among groups at elevated risk remain unclear. Therefore, we assessed mpox knowledge among Black young adults to inform public health efforts. METHODS: We surveyed a sample (n = 330) of young Black adults (aged 18-29 years) in Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina using nine true-or-false questions to assess their mpox knowledge. RESULTS: Correct response rates varied (26%-96%). Approximately 26% were unaware of the mpox vaccine, and almost 21% incorrectly thought the chickenpox vaccine conferred protection against mpox. Females demonstrated statistically significantly higher mpox knowledge than males across 33% of indicators. DISCUSSION: There were no statistically significant differences between states, suggesting that a regional approach may be suitable to improve knowledge. Findings underscore the importance of education and public health initiatives to address mpox knowledge gaps, particularly among Black young adults, to improve public health preparedness.