Knowledge, Attitude and Practice survey on Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) in Linda Compound

Vol 1

Abstract

There are wide gaps in empirical and perceptual baseline data and information on obtaining knowledge, attitudes and practices with respect to Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS). The main objective of this study was to assess the levels of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice that Linda residents have towards Indoor Residual Spraying. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in Linda compound. A multi-stage sampling method was used to select households for the study and a purposive availability sampling method was used to constitute focus group discussions. A total of 387 respondents took part in the study. The levels of knowledge on malaria and IRS were 84.2 percent and 80.9 percent, respectively. However, the level of IRS utilisation was 57.8 percent. Age and knowledge of IRS were independently associated with acceptability of IRS. On each birthday, respondents were 3 percent more likely to accept IRS. Compared to respondents who had no knowledge of IRS, those who had knowledge were 77 percent more likely to accept IRS. The level of IRS utilisation was low. To dispel various misconceptions and myths regarding IRS and indigenous methods of Malaria prevention, health care providers need to disseminate information about what IRS actually does.