Estimation of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Bednets usage in 14 Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Endemic Areas in Morocco - Abstract
One of the recommended control methods to reduce leishmaniasis transmission is the use of long lasting insecticide nets (LLINs). However, recent studies in Morocco show that their effect on cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) incidence was minor.
Aim: This study was conducted to identify the factors that might explain this low impact; mainly ownership and use after distribution.
Subject and methods: The study involved fourteen localities covered by LLINs and was based on a households (HH) survey, which utilized a simple random sampling design. Interviews were done during May-June 2012, with each head of randomly selected HH using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed by using the normal test for the comparison of proportions and the student test for comparison of means.
Results: In the fourteen localities, LLINs ownership was good: 94.4 % (62-100). On average, each household received 3.2 LLINs. The proportions of individuals sleeping under LLINs was very low (34.3%) with no significant difference between both sexes. Results of the study support the conclusion that the low impact of LLINs intervention is due to their low usage by the population.
Conclusion: There is a need to strengthen the communication with community to improve the use of nets and assure an effective impact on leishmaniasis transmission.