Knowledge Levels on Malaria Control Strategies in Chainda Compound of Lusaka, Zambia.

Abstract

A clear understanding of the knowledge of a particular community can inform the design of health promotion and health education strategies. Research to clearly assess the level of knowledge on malaria control strategies has not been sufficiently done in some areas such as Chainda compound in Lusaka District. In this regard, descriptive cross-sectional research was conducted in Chainda compound. Quantitative data was collected using structured questionnaire covering 120 households while qualitative data was collected through focus group discussions (FGDs). Quantitative data were double entered using MS-Excel 2010. Data was then transferred to SPSS version 20 and STATA version 13 were used for statistical analysis and graphical presentations. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic approach. Findings revealed that Seven percent (7%) of respondents had medium knowledge about malaria prevention and control, (Mean score = 10.82 points, SD = 3.85). Respondents do recognize the threat posed by malaria as most 102(85.4%) agreed with the statement: I think that malaria is a serious and life-threatening disease. Sleeping under an ITN was the most 99(82.1%) prevalent method of malaria prevention and control followed by IRS 60(50.4%). Despite the high prevalence of ITNs, a FGD with CHWs revealed that many community members did not have ITNs. All the three FGDs conducted revealed that people are not being sensitized on IRS; as a result, some community members do not accept that their houses be sprayed. This research concludes that most people had fair knowledge about malaria prevention and control. Majority of respondents recognized malaria as a threat to their lives in the community. Among others, this research recommends that Ministry of health in their communication about malaria prevention and control should employ a combination of channels from the radio, posters at health centres and other community locations.