Abstract
BackgroundAlthough a significant decrease in entomological and epidemiological indicators was reported in Cameroon since the introduction of insecticide-treated bed nets, malaria prevalence remains high also in some parts of the West Region of Cameroon. This study was designed to evaluate malaria preventive measures among patients attending the Bamendjou and Foumbot District hospitals of the West Region of Cameroon.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study carried out within a period of 3 months, from January to March 2020. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire and laboratory analysis. The CareStart™ Pf Malaria HRP2 qualitative rapid diagnostic test was used for malaria diagnosis. The questionnaire was designed to collect information on respondent’s socio-demographic characteristics, and the use of malaria preventive measures. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and Chi-square (and Fisher’s exact) test.ResultsA total of 170 study participants were recruited in Foumbot and 197 in Bamendjou. Malaria was significantly (P < 0.0001) more prevalent in Foumbot (47.06%) than in Bamendjou (19.8%). In Foumbot, non-use of insect repellent spray (P = 0.0214), insect repellent body cream (P = 0.0009), mosquito spray (P = 0.0001) and not draining stagnant water (P = 0.0004) predisposed to higher risk of malaria. In Bamendjou, non-use of insect repellent spray (P = 0.0012), long-lasting insecticidal bed nets (P = 0.0001), window and door nets (P = 0.0286), predisposed to a higher risk of malaria.ConclusionsMalaria prevalence was high among the study participants especially in Foumbot. An adequate follow-up to ensure effective execution of the recently launched third phase of LLINs distribution campaign in Cameroon is recommended. Additionally, integrated vector management is required to ensure effective control of malaria transmission in Foumbot and Bamendjou.
Highlights
A significant decrease in entomological and epidemiological indicators was reported in Cameroon since the introduction of insecticide-treated bed nets, malaria prevalence remains high in some parts of the West Region of Cameroon
In Cameroon the main method of malaria prevention is the use of different types (e.g. PermaNet, Olyset, Interceptor) of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) [2]
A total of 367 patients were recruited for the study with a total malaria prevalence of 32.43% (119/367)
Summary
A significant decrease in entomological and epidemiological indicators was reported in Cameroon since the introduction of insecticide-treated bed nets, malaria prevalence remains high in some parts of the West Region of Cameroon. National coverage is anticipated with the third mass distribution campaign of LLINs launched in February 2019 [4]. A significant decrease in entomological and epidemiological indicators was reported in Cameroon since the introduction of ITNs/LLINs [5, 6]. In the west region, a high prevalence (53.4%) of malaria was recently reported among pregnant women in Foumban, a neighbouring town to Foumbot [7]. It was reported that increased access to impregnated mosquito bed nets is needed to reduce the risk of malaria infection [7]. With an increase in coverage rates and correct usage, LLINs could greatly assist in malaria elimination in Cameroon [5]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
