Determinants of Malaria treatment seeking time for under five years children in Uganda. A Case Study of Apac District

Abstract

Background Malaria is a public health threat in sub–Saharan Africa and endemic in Uganda with Apac one of high burden districts. Malaria is known to be leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years old in Uganda. However, little is known about the community management of malaria and treatment-seeking patterns. We aimed to assess determinants of malaria treatment-seeking behaviour for children under-five years by their caretakers in Apac district. Methods A cross sectional descriptive study was designed with quantitative data collection methods. Simple random sampling technique was used in identifying the caretakers as study participants for this study. Structured questionnaires were administered to caregivers in 240 households. Survival analysis was done to investigate the socio-economic, demographic, and behavioural factors that affect time to seek malaria treatment for children by their caretakers/parents using R. Results We had 100% response rate. All caregivers sought treatment for their children and out of the 240 caregivers, (70%) are female. Our results showed that education level, employment status, marital status, household wealth index, choice of the hospital and reason for delayed treatment were significantly associated with malaria treatment seeking time among caretakers of children under five years. Conclusion Timely drug supply to the main hospital and to households by the Village Health Teams to effectively ensure early treatment-seeking behaviours for malaria and sensitization of caregivers on early malaria treatment attendance of their ill children. The government should expand education financing for basic, intermediate, and university institutions, as well as adult education initiatives. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) should be encouraged to play a role in educating caregivers, particularly on treatment-seeking behaviours for malaria-infected children under the age of five. Early malaria treatment in children under the age of five requires efficient medicine supply to primary hospitals and families by Village Health Teams (VHTs). It is also critical to educate caregivers on early treatment and suitable healthcare options for fever. Trial registration Not applicable