A Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Survey on Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) in Linda compound

Abstract

There are wide gaps in empirical and perceptual baseline data and information on obtaining knowledge, attitudes and practices with respect to Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS).The main objective of this study was to assess the levels of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice that Linda residents have towards Indoor Residual Spraying. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in Linda compound. A multi-stage sampling method was used to select households for the study and a purposive availability sampling method was used to constitute focus group discussions with members of the Neighbourhood Health Committee.A total of 387 respondents took part in the study. The levels of knowledge on malaria and IRS were 84.2% and 80.9%, respectively. However, the level of IRS utilisation was 57.8%. The common reasons given for not having a house spray were: not available at home (36.8%) and did not want the house to be sprayed (27.6%). Further results show that 41.1% of the respondents were not happy when the house was sprayed; 58.9% did not like the IRS strategy; 94.6% were concerned with the smell of the chemical used in IRS; 88.6% were concerned that the chemical was bad for children; and 96.1% were concerned that IRS causes walls to be dirty.Age and knowledge of IRS were independently associated with acceptability of IRS. On each birthday, respondents were 3% more likely to accept IRS. Compared to respondents who had no knowledge of IRS, those who had knowledge were 77% more likely to accept IRS. In conclusion, the level of IRS utilisation was low. To dispel various misconceptions and myths regarding IRS and indigenous methods of Malaria prevention, health care providers need to disseminate information about what IRS actually does.