Community Knowledge and Practices on Malaria in Swaziland
Author Information
Author(s): Hlongwana Khumbulani W, Mabaso Musawenkosi L, Kunene Simon, Govender Dayanandan, Maharaj Rajendra
Primary Institution: Malaria Research Lead Programme, South African Medical Research Council
Hypothesis
What do local communities in Swaziland understand about malaria transmission and prevention?
Conclusion
While there is fair knowledge of malaria in Swaziland, improving information availability through community channels is necessary.
Supporting Evidence
- 93.1% of respondents had heard about malaria.
- 99.7% of those who heard about malaria correctly associated it with mosquito bites.
- 88.1% stated they would seek treatment within 24 hours of symptoms.
- 78% believed malaria is preventable.
Takeaway
People in Swaziland mostly know that malaria is caused by mosquito bites and that they should seek treatment quickly, but they need more information on how to prevent it.
Methodology
A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to randomly selected households.
Limitations
The study only included adults and may not represent the views of the entire population.
Participant Demographics
{"gender_distribution":{"male":48.4,"female":51.6},"age_distribution":{"0-5":16.4,"6-15":25.2,"16-40":39.8,"41+":17.3},"education_level":{"no_education":16.6,"primary":38.7,"secondary":24.8,"tertiary":1.3},"employment_status":{"unemployed":24.0,"studying":29.3}}
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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