mSpray : a mobile phone technology to improve malaria control efforts and monitor human exposure to malaria control pesticides in Limpopo, South Africa

摘要: Recent estimates indicate that malaria has led to over half a million deaths worldwide, mostly African children. Indoor residual spraying (IRS) of insecticides is one the primary vector control interventions. However, current reporting systems do not obtain precise location IRS events in relation cases, which poses challenges for effective and efficient control. This information also critical avoid unnecessary human exposure insecticides. We developed piloted mobile-based application (mSpray) collect comprehensive on spray events. assessed utility, acceptability feasibility using mSpray gather improved homestead- chemical-level coverage data. installed 10 cell phones with data bundles, pilot tested it 13 users Limpopo, South Africa. Users completed basic (number rooms/shelters sprayed; chemical used, etc.) Upon submission, this as well geographic positioning system coordinates time/date stamp were uploaded Google Drive Spreadsheet be viewed real time. administered questionnaires, conducted focus groups, interviewed key informants evaluate utility app. The low-cost, phone-based "mSpray" app was learned quickly by users, accepted preferred paper-based method. recorded 2865 entries (99.1% had GPS accuracy 20 m or less) identified areas improvement including increased battery life. number logistic user problems (e.g., cost cellular life, obtaining accurate measures, errors, would need overcome before full deployment. Use phone technology could increase efficiency efforts mapping resulting more judicious use chemicals are potentially harmful humans environment.