A Descriptive Survey on Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Beliefs on Kalaazar among the Residents of Marigat Sub-county, Baringo County, Kenya
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Date
2016
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health
Abstract
Objective: To establish the level of knowledge, attitude, practices and beliefs related to kala azar among residents of Marigat sub - County, Baringo
County. Methods: The sub-County is divided into 37 sub-locations and of these 8 herein referred to as villages were considered for this study. A total of
670 households were randomly drawn from the 8 villages, and this formed the sample population. Data were collected using structured questionnaires
and in-depth interviews of key informants. Results: The findings indicated that the respondents were well informed on kala azar; the cause and
treatment. They also had favorable attitude toward the disease. They were aware that the disease was curable and sought treatment from health
facilities as opposed to traditional alternatives. In seeking treatment, the residents were faced with challenges such as the long distance to health
facilities, long period of treatment and the attendant cost of caring for a leishmaniasis patient. The respondents were aware that the disease was
spread by an insect; however, they were not aware of preventive measures. Most live in destitute houses which predisposed them to the infective bite
of the vector. Most of the respondents are not employed and the cost of treatment, in addition to attendant costs places a heavy economic burden on
them. Conclusion: The results showed good awareness of leishmaniasis, positive attitude and practices among the respondents which are important
attributes in community participation. These findings are quite encouraging to researchers planning control programs because such a community
would be more receptive to suggested control measures.
Description
Published Journal Article
Keywords
Kala azar, Leishmaniasis, Sand fly
Citation
Kiarie, M. W., Nzau, A. M., Ngumbi, P. M., Waithima, A., Bowen, M. K., Nzunza, R. M., Ingonga, J. M., & Ngure, P. K. (2016). A Descriptive Survey on Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Beliefs on Kalaazar among the Residents of Marigat Sub-county, Baringo County, Kenya: International Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health: Volume 6, Issue 2, 2016