Utilization of Long-lasting Insecticide treated Mosquito Nets amongst Households in Upper River Region, The Gambia
Abstract:
Long
Lasting Insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs) are known to be highly effective
in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality. However, there exists availability
and usage variations between countries and among households and such may
seriously limit the potential impact of nets and cause a negative consequence
on malaria transmission. This study examined LLIN ownership and underlying
factors that may serve as barriers to utilization amongst households in two
districts in Upper River Region. Malaria is the major cause of morbidity and
mortality in children and pregnant women. LLINs are an effective option in the
prevention of malaria because they serve as a barrier between man and mosquito.
However, their utilization among the population is still a problem despite
ownership been high. Surveys have shown that the region in which this study was
conducted has the lowest utilization rate in The Gambia and the second highest
malaria prevalence in the country. The study adapted a structured questionnaire
and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) to better understand the situation of net
utilization in the two districts. The study revealed interesting findings:
Respondents have clear understanding that LLINs are for the prevention of
malaria. Factors such as heat, mesh size of net, texture were very important
determinants for a person to use a net. A very important determinant for
someone not using a net is the season as a lot of the people belief that
mosquitoes are not many during the dry season. Indoor Residual Spraying was one
“devil in disguise”.
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