Attitudes and Practices towards utilization of insecticide-treated nets in malaria prevention among residents of Mutungo Zone IV in Kampala district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/2dqj4a19Keywords:
Attitudes and Practices, Utilization of ITNs, Mutungo Zone IV in Kampala districtAbstract
Background
Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) are a proven intervention for malaria prevention, yet their utilization falls short of universal coverage targets. Attitudes and practices (AP) play a great role in determining ITN use. This study aimed to determine Attitudes and Practices towards utilization of ITNs in malaria prevention among residents of Mutungo Zone IV in 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, and data was analyzed and presented in tables, graphs, and pie-charts where frequencies and percentages were used.
Results
21(70%) were female, 21(70%) were married. The attitude related to utilization of ITNs was negative, as the majority of the respondents (66.3%) reported that ITNs can make one suffocate when slept in them, and only 33.3% reported that ITNs cannot make one suffocate (positive attitude). 22(73.3%) accepted that ITNs are safe for ill people. 21(70%) reported that ITNs cause skin itching when they come into contact with the body. Practices were good since (80%) regularly slept under ITNs, (93%) regularly washed their ITNs, (96.7%) always checked for holes in their ITNs, and (53.3%) always displayed their ITNs when entering the bed.
Conclusion
Respondents generally had a negative attitude towards the use of ITNs. Their Practices on the utilization of insecticide-treated bed nets were commendable, as the majority of the respondents indicated correct use of ITNs.
Recommendation
Health workers should ensure that community members get the right information on the use and efficacy of ITNs to rule out rumors such as ITNs can make one suffocate.
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