Community perception of the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen for controlling malaria vectors in south-eastern Tanzania

• Published in: Malaria Journal
• Main Authors: Felista S. Tarimo, Angel Dillip, Efraim M. Kosia, Dickson W. Lwetoijera
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2023
• Subjects: Autodissemination; Pyriproxyfen; Malaria; Community perception; Tanzania; Arctic medicine. Tropical medicine; RC955-962; Infectious and parasitic diseases; RC109-216; Arctic
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12936-023-04773-2; https://doaj.org/article/337bea2f3a714be79a0c28667abd065e

Abstract Background The efficacy of the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen to control malaria vectors has been demonstrated under semi field environment in Tanzania. However, the information on how best communities should be engaged for its routine and large-scale adoption are lacking. This study assessed the community’s level of knowledge, perceptions, acceptability of the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen, and the perceived risks on the safety of pyriproxyfen on the environment. Methods This was a concurrent mixed methods study, comprised of a community-based survey of 400 household representatives and eight focus group discussions (FGDs). The study was conducted in two villages in Mlimba district in south-eastern Tanzania between June and August 2022. For the quantitative data analysis, descriptive statistics were applied using R software, while inductive approach was used for qualitative data analysis, using NVivo software. Results Knowledge on autodissemination of pyriproxyfen approach was found to be relatively low among both the FGD respondents and surveyed community members (36%, n = 144). Nevertheless, when it was explained to them, the envisioned community support for the autodissemination approach was relatively high (97%, n = 388). One of the major perceived benefits of the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen was the reduction of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes and associated malaria transmission. Environmental impact of pyriproxyfen on non-target organisms and health risk to children were among the major concerns. When provided with information on the safety and its utilization particularly through autodissemination approach, 93.5% (n = 374) of the survey respondents said that they would allow the PPF-contaminated pots to be placed around their homes. Similarly, FGD respondents were receptive towards the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen, but emphasized on the need for raising awareness among community members before related field trials. Conclusion This study indicates a low knowledge but high support ...