Digitalized mass distribution campaign of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in the particular context of Covid-19 pandemic in Benin: challenges and lessons learned

Rock Aïkpon,Dieu-Donné Eclou,Lamidhi Salami,Sahidou Salifou,Cyriaque Affoukou,Benjamin Hounpkatin,Aurore Ogouyemi Hounto,Elijah Egwu,Yves Cyaka,Filémon Tokponnon,Narcisse Agbessi

doi:10.1186/s12936-020-03508-x

Abstract

BackgroundIn 2020, Benin has implemented a digitalized mass distribution campaign of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in the particular context of COVID-19 pandemic. This paper describes the implementation process as well as the challenges and lessons learned from this campaign.MethodsA descriptive design was used for reporting the planning and implementation process of ITNs campaign. Moreover, the changes and adaptations related to COVID-19 pandemic are described.ResultsA total of 3,175,773 households were registered corresponding to a total of 14,423,998 persons (13.55% more from projection). Moreover, 94.16% (13,581,637 people) of enumerated population were protected. A total of 7,652,166 ITNs were distributed countrywide.ConclusionsHigh political commitment, engagement and support add to the financial and technical supports from partners were the essential factors that make 2020 ITNs mass campaign success in Benin despite the particular context of COVID-19 pandemic. It is essential to maintain the prevention activities for malaria and this could substantially reduce the overall impact of the COVID-19 pandemic for the populations at malaria risk.

Highlights

In 2020, Benin has implemented a digitalized mass distribution campaign of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in the particular context of COVID-19 pandemic
The NMCP of Benin has adopted a policy of mass distribution since 2011, on a triennial basis, considering the lifespan of ITNs, as previously evaluated in the country [8], and as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) [9,10,11,12]
Recognizing the heavy toll that malaria exacts on vulnerable populations in Africa region, the WHO recommended continuing with the implementation of malaria control interventions, such as ITNs and indoor residual spraying campaign

Summary

Introduction

In 2020, Benin has implemented a digitalized mass distribution campaign of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in the particular context of COVID-19 pandemic. During the campaign process, between the enumeration phase and that of the distribution itself, the COVID-19 pandemic occurred and Benin recorded its first cases. Recognizing the heavy toll that malaria exacts on vulnerable populations in Africa region, the WHO recommended continuing with the implementation of malaria control interventions, such as ITNs and indoor residual spraying campaign. On this basis, the Government of Benin, through the Ministry of Health and the NMCP, decided to continue with the implementation of the distribution campaign. It was necessary to revise the initial distribution protocol and take precautionary measures in order to minimize the risk of transmission of COVID-19 during distribution

Methods

Results

Conclusion