Malaria control in central Malaita, Solomon Islands 2. Local perceptions of the disease and practices for its treatment and prevention.

摘要: Government health policy for malaria control in Solomon Islands has three main objectives: (1) early diagnosis and treatment of at a service; (2) reduction human-vector contact through widespread use insecticide-impregnated bed nets; (3) provision chemoprophylaxis pregnant women. Social research was carried out thirteen villages central Malaita to determine local attitudes toward estimate the level participation activities. Interviews with 124 care-givers who had children 0–10 years age, 20 focus group discussions four evening structured observations were methods used. Antimalarial drugs most favoured treatment, traditional medicines healers reportedly minimal. Twenty-five percent respondents reported keeping chloroquine home 42% said they would before seeking from service. Structured suggest that protection against mosquitoes is poor during evening. Fifty-two using fire 32% used nets protect themselves mosquitoes. Participants contradictory beliefs on threat pregnancy safety taking prophylaxis. Implications prevention practices are discussed, recommendations improving presented.