KNOWLEDGE TOWARDS INSECTICIDE-TREATED NETS UTILIZATION IN MALARIA PREVENTION AMONG RESIDENTS OF MUTUNGO ZONE IV, KAMPALA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Jonathan Edward Lwanga; Claire Mukomuzibu; Jane Frances  Namuddu

doi:10.70659/gjhib.v2i5.20

Authors

Jonathan Edward Lwanga Lubaga Hospital Training Schools
Claire Mukomuzibu Lubaga Hospital Training Schools
Jane Frances Namuddu Lubaga Hospital Training School, P.O.BOX 14130 Kampala-Uganda

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70659/gjhib.v2i5.20

Keywords:

Knowledge of Insecticide Treated Nets, Malaria Prevention, Kampala District

Abstract

Background

Malaria remains a significant public health concern globally, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the largest burden. Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) are a cornerstone in malaria prevention, as a cost-effective and efficient strategy. Despite the widespread distribution and promotion of ITNs, their utilization remains suboptimal in many endemic regions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of ITN utilization in malaria prevention among residents of Mutungo Zone IV, Kampala district.

Methodology

The study was a cross-sectional study design that involved a quantitative data collection method. 30 participants were selected using a simple random sampling method. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires consisting of open and closed-ended questions, data was analyzed and presented in tables, graphs, and pie-charts where frequencies and percentages were used.

Results

Majority 21(70%) were female, and the minority 9(30%) were male. Most 12(40%) were between 31-40years and the minority 4(13.3%) were between 10-30 years. The majority of the respondents (57%) reported the use of ITNs as the best way of preventing malaria and (6.7%) reported draining of water-logged areas. 28(93.3%) wanted to know more information concerning with ITNs. 22(73.3%) said that ITNs are used to protect against malaria. 17(57%) said that the use of ITNs is the most effective malaria preventive measure.

Conclusion

The study found relatively good knowledge about ITN use because respondents knew the

purpose of insecticide-treated bed nets and also knew that the use of ITNs is the most effective.

Malaria preventive measure.

Recommendation

The Government/ Ministry of Health should conduct door-to-door education talks on the utilization of ITNs in the prevention of malaria.

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