Evaluation of Malaria Preventive Measures Among Adult Patients Attending the Bamendjou and Foumbot District Hospitals of the West Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Although 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. Therefore this study was designed to evaluate malaria preventive measures among patients attending the Bamendjou and Foumbot District hospitals of the West Region of Cameroon. Methods: This was a cross sectional study carried out within a period of three months, from January to March 2020. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire and laboratory analysis. The CareStart ™ Malaria HRP2 (Pf) qualitative rapid diagnostic test was used for malaria diagnosis. The questionnaire was designed to collect information on respondent’s socio demographic characteristics, and use of malaria preventive measures. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis and Chi-square (and Fisher’s exact) test. Results: A 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, nonuse 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. But in Bamendjou, nonuse of insect repellent spray (P = 0.0012), long lasting insecticidal bed nets (P = 0.0001), window and door nets (P = 0.0286), predisposed to higher risk of malaria. Conclusions: Malaria prevalence was high among the study participants especially in Foumbot. Adequate follow-up to ensure effective execution of the recently launched third phase of LLINs distribution campaign in Cameroon is recommended. Additionally, Intergrated Vector Management is required to ensure effective control of malaria transmission in Foumbot and Bamendjou.