Knowledge and practices on environmental management for malaria control in Kore and Ahero irrigation scheme, Nyando sub-county, Kisumu county, Kenya.

Abstract

Malaria remains one of the most prevalent vector borne diseases especially in Sub Saharan Africa contributing to morbidity and mortality of both adults and children. Knowledge in malaria control and prevention methods especially environmental management can reduce the population density of the vectors thus lessen malaria prevalence. The objectives of this study were to: determine knowledge on environmental management for malaria control, identify the most effective environmental management practices for malaria control and examine the influence of socio-demographics on knowledge and practices in environmental management of malaria control among the residents in Kore and Ahero irrigation scheme in Nyando Sub-county, Kisumu County, Kenya. A cross-sectional study design with systematic random sampling of 323 respondents was applied. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interview guides. Quantitative data was processed and analyzed using SPSS while context and thematic analysis was done on qualitative data. Results showed that respondents were well aware of the links between mosquitoes, the environment, and malaria except that there were some misconceptions. They pointed mosquitoes as risk factor of malaria, (94.4%), pointed stagnant water as factors that increase mosquito population (91.0%), they also pointed out stagnant water as mosquito breeding habitats (82.7%). Respondents reported various environmental preventive measures whereby use of bed nets was found to be the most effective. Education, gender and occupation were found to be the most important demographic factors associated with certain knowledge and practices on environmental management for malaria control. Misconceptions about malaria transmission and its cause still exist. Knowledge about preventive measures does not necessarily translate into improvement in practices. There is a need for appropriate health education addressing attitudes towards taking health action. More qualitative research should be done to address issues of culture and attitude on environmental management for malaria control and increased participation in effective techniques should be promoted.