Causes of the high malaria incidence in Mpigi district, Central Uganda

Abstract

A clear understanding of the Causes of Malaria in Mpigi District, Central Uganda can inform the design of behavior Change Communication (BCC) campaigns to influence application of appropriate use of any malaria prevention and treatment measures. Research to clearly determine the cause of the problem and what interventions to carry out has not been undertaken in Mpigi District. In this regard, a study was conducted guided by the following objective: To examine the Causes of the high malaria incidence in Mpigi District aiming at identifying the Social Economic, Individual and Institutional Causes. A cross-sectional study was conducted for 3 months during the months of September to November 2020. Quantitative and quantitative data were collected by means of a structured questionnaire covering 160 household respondents. Both Quantitative and qualitative data collected was statistically analyzed using Microsoft excel as well as (SPSS and Stata) statistical software package for inferential and descriptive analysis. Sixty one percent of respondents had medium knowledge about malaria prevention and control, scoring either 5 or 6 out of a maximum 7 points (Mean score = 5.46 points, SD = 1.17). On the whole, respondents do recognize the threat posed by malaria as most (97.1%) agreed with the statement: I think that malaria is a serious and life-threatening disease. Despite most households (79%) owning mosquito nets, participants of focus group discussions confirmed that some people do not use the nets because they associate them with breathing difficulties. 76% of the respondents had poor practices towards malaria prevention and control. In general, most people had fair knowledge about malaria prevention and control and most of the respondents see malaria as a threat to their lives. However, some social behaviors were potential spurs of the surge. The different behaviors and roles identified between men and women need to be taken into account in health promotion efforts. Therefore, interventions aimed at social and behavior change are necessary to address the gaps highlighted by the study. We also conclude that community based interventions which bring improvement in standard of living, access to healthcare facilities and health awareness, will have a significant impact on malaria prevention in these areas based on the study findings.