Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Conjunctivitis Among Medical Students at Al Neelain University During Conflict in Sudan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Conjunctivitis is one of the most common ocular conditions worldwide, with significant public health implications. In Sudan, ongoing conflict and displacement have exacerbated the risk of outbreaks, highlighting the need to assess awareness and preventive behaviours among future healthcare providers. Purpose: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of medical students at Al Neelain University regarding conjunctivitis, and to identify gaps that may inform educational and policy interventions. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 273 medical students using a structured bilingual questionnaire. Stratified random sampling ensured proportional representation across academic years. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with descriptive statistics, chi square tests, t tests, and ANOVA applied. Ethical approval was obtained from the Faculty of Medicine, Al Neelain University Results: Overall knowledge was moderate (66.1%), with high awareness of contagion (88.3%) and viral aetiology (81.5%). Attitudes were positive (mean score 4.015 ± 0.6), particularly regarding public health responsibility. Preventive practices were variable, with handwashing reported by 82.4% but symptomatic relief measures less common (64.5%). KAP scores improved significantly with academic progression (knowledge p < 0.001; attitude p = 0.032; practice p = 0.027). Conclusion: Medical students demonstrated moderate knowledge, positive attitudes, and variable practices toward conjunctivitis. Strengthening ophthalmic education and empowering students as public health advocates are essential, particularly in conflict affected settings where healthcare systems are disrupted.