मलेरिया नियंत्रण एवं उन्मूलन

Perceptions Associated with Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net usage among Antenatal Clinic Attendees at Buchi Clinic

Abstract

Mwiza Mweembe Alibuzwi*

Introduction: Malaria is a life threatening disease caused by plasmodium parasites that are transmitted to people through the bite of an infected female anopheles mosquito. Malaria during pregnancy is dangerous to the mother and fetus. This study is aimed at determining the perception that pregnant women have towards insecticide treated mosquito nets. Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) are considered one of the most effective interventions against malaria and have been endorsed by the World Health Organization for the global anti-malaria efforts.

Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out at Buchi cinic from February 2022 to April, 2022. Semi structured questionnaires were used to collect data from consenting pregnant women. Data was entered on a computer and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 26.

Results: A total number of 195 participants consented to taking part in this study and were interviewed. Majority of the participants were between the ages of 20-35 (60.2%). Most of the women (67.2%) had good knowledge, and majority (71.3%) had good attitude towards ITNs. Additionally the reasons for non-usage of ITNs were; discomfort, low mosquito activity/season and not enough room.

Conclusion: Majority of the participants in this study had good perception, good knowledge and good attitudes towards ITNs.