Sand Flies Control: A Review of the Knowledge of Health Professionals and the Local Community, Province of El Hajeb, Morocco

Abstract

Sand flies are insect vectors of several diseases including leishmaniases. These vector-borne diseases represent a public health problem in several countries around the world, including Morocco. The objective of this study was to assess simultaneously the knowledge of health professionals and inhabitants on sand flies; a cross-sectional survey was conducted between April and June 2019 among 424 people, 34% of whom were health professionals and 66% of whom were inhabitants of the province of El Hajeb in central Morocco; 46.3% of doctors, 50.7% of nurses, 66.7% of midwives and 69.4% of inhabitants showed a low knowledge of sand flies. Most participants believed that sand flies breed in stagnant and polluted waters. Negative attitudes were found among 72.2% of the inhabitants. Factors associated with a high level of knowledge included continuing education among health professionals and information on vector-borne diseases among residents. The conceptual and cognitive gaps in the knowledge of sand flies reflect the lack of information and training on sand flies. The results of the sand fly knowledge review can be integrated into the national leishmaniases control program and the integrated vector management strategy to raise public awareness on the health risks of sand flies.

Entomological Exploration of Sand Flies in Human Communities Affected by Cutaneous and Visceral Leishmaniasis in El Hajeb Province, Morocco

“…This is mainly related to the ecology of the parasite rather than to the distribution of the vector [ 30 ]. Thus, recent studies have shown that the sand fly is called “ Chniwla ” by the local population and by health professionals in the region [ 7 – 9 ].…”

Control of the sandflies vector of leishmaniasis: Results of an entomological survey on the sandflies fauna in Morocco (El Hajeb)

“…In summary, this entomological survey around the sand y carried out in the province of El Hajeb in central Morocco has provided both information on the circulating sand y fauna in the region and an opportunity to enrich the Moroccan inventory. The sand y is popularly known by the name "Chniwla" [11,38].…”

“…In addition, vector control is a very important strategic focus for limiting the spread of leishmaniasis. Studies have shown that improving the knowledge of the population and health professionals plays a crucial role in successful vector control activities [11,12]. Also, Qualls et al have shown the effectiveness of attractive sweet baits in controlling sand ies [13] However, the Ministry of Health con rms that vector control in Morocco is mainly based on the monitoring of the sand y population by identifying the localities at risk and with high abundance and the periods of transmission to implement targeted and precise control actions to limit the transmission of the disease to humans and animals [3].…”

Perception and use of Medicinal Plants and Chemical Products in the Traditional Treatment of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Morocco

“…In Morocco, this insect is popularly known as "Chniwla". 20 Relevant research has revealed that the Moroccan population used medicinal plants and traditional preparations based on essential oils to fight the bite of this insect. 21 The use of essential oils and plant extracts as effective insecticides was also proven by pharmaceutical research.…”