Attitudes and perceived impact of insecticide treated– bed nets on malaria control in rural Tanzania

Abstract

Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are the most powerful malaria control tool if used correctly. Yet up to date, utilization is still low. The aim of this study was to investigate the intra-household factors that affect the utilization of ITNs in rural households in MorogoroUrban district. In addition, this study analysed the reasons for ITNs non-use in households with children under five years. Questionnaire, interviews and observation were the key tools for data collection for thestudy. The intra-household factors affecting the utilization of ITNs reported in this study include, chemical substances impregnated in the nets (36%), household financial inadequacy (24%), warmth and discomfort of the nets (24%) and skin irritability (17%), among others. The general community knowledge about mosquito nets was found to be high (91%); however, the knowledge of ITNs was low (30%). In addition, it was found that the ITNs were inadequately accessible in the study community. Based on the results of this study, adequate accessibility of ITNs and community education related to the use and their significance is recommended.