Nwambo, JC, Eappen, P, Joseph, SF and Agbele, TO (2016) Malaria Control Strategy Among Members of American University of Nigeria Yola. Science Journal of Public Health, 4 (6). p. 440. ISSN 2328-7942

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Abstract

Malaria is well known public health menace in Nigeria with huge economic and social cost especially in institutions or university community, where it accounts for more outpatients’ visits than any other cause, yet the incidence of malaria is on the rise. This study examined the individual control strategy for malaria infestation among members of American University of Nigeria Community. The study utilized a descriptive survey approach. An internet base self-structured questionnaire randomly sent to both staff and students was used to elicit relevant information for the study. A total of 260 individuals responded to the questionnaire. Data from the clinic medical data base (Care plus) was used to ascertain the incidence of Malaria from January 2014 to June, 2016. Using line graph, percentage distribution table, mean and standard deviation for data analysis, findings from the study indicated an overall rise in the incidence of malaria. The mean and SD value of 56.7 ± 35.2 showed that individuals varied in their choice of preventive/control method for malaria infection. Most respondents 47.3% and 40 % would prevent malaria attacks by using insecticide spray and screening of doors and windows respectively. 23.1% of the respondents drain stagnant water (breeding site for mosquitoes) or use prophylactic malaria drug (22.7%). Less than 15% would use either of various other methods such as treated mosquito nets, clearing of surrounding bushes and grass, repellent creams, wear protective clothing or use mosquito coil/bat (5.8%). Based on the perceived factors which influence individual choice of adopting variety of methods to prevent malaria attack, 45% of the respondent reported lack of awareness as a major factor influencing malaria controls strategy and Location/Environment (36.9%), inefficient/incorrect use of preventive measures (30.4%). 20% considered cost, safety level of repellent, nets, insecticides and chemical/drug resistance as a factor with educational level perceived as been the least influential (16.9%). The study identified a lax in attitude and inefficient utilization of available resources. Therefore, it is imperative for every individual to be more proactive and conscientious in their approach towards the prevention and control of malaria infection. Heightened malaria awareness program as a way of public enlightenment synergized by enabling policies and strategic planning at specific periods of the year will go a long way in mitigating the incidence of malaria and the ripple effect it has on the nation.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine R Medicine > RT Nursing
Divisions:	Nursing and Advanced Practice
Publisher:	Science Publishing Group
SWORD Depositor:	A Symplectic
Date Deposited:	14 Oct 2024 13:18
Last Modified:	14 Oct 2024 13:30
DOI or ID number:	10.11648/j.sjph.20160406.14
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/24511

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