Healthcare-seeking and self-isolation intentions for mpox among men who have sex with men in Chonburi Province

Abstract

This cross-sectional survey aimed to examine intentions for healthcare seeking and self-isolation for mpox and to identify factors influencing these intentions among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Chonburi Province, Thailand. The sample consisted of 421 MSM aged 18-45 years old, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression. The majority of participants were aged 26-35 years (42.52%), single (91.21%), held a bachelor's degree (36.82%), worked in private companies (43.47%), lived in urban areas (87.65%), and had previously received information about mpox (82.42%). Most participants showed a high intention to seek healthcare (93.35%), while the intention to self-isolate was lower (69.60%). Multivariable analysis indicated that having received information about the disease (OR_adj = 3.36, 95% CI = 1.08-10.43) and having an HIV-negative test result (OR_adj = 4.39, 95% CI = 1.23-15.72) were significantly associated with the intention to seek healthcare. Factors associated with the intention to self-isolate included having no sexual partner and having one sexual partner in the past three months (OR_adj = 3.15 and 2.57, respectively), a high level of positive attitude (OR_adj = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.56-5.09), and high perceived risk (OR_adj = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.45-4.25). The findings suggest that while MSM show a strong intention to seek healthcare, their willingness to self-isolate remains comparatively lower. Interventions should prioritize effective risk communication and foster positive attitudes toward public health measures.