Home-management of malaria in rural Tanzania

Abstract

This study was carried out to examine people’s attempts to manage malaria at home, and factors that impact treatment-seeking behavior. It took place between November 2003 and January 2004 in Kilombero district. It included two sub-studies (Quantitative and Qualitative); each had 100 respondents, comprised of caretakers, adults, youths, shopkeepers, and health workers. Respondents More than half (52%) of all households understudy reported stocking some pharmaceutical drugs. Chloroquine stocking in then area remains very high, (30%) compared to SP (1%). Most drugs stocked in households came from shops (75%), only 15% came from health facilities. Home-management through self-medication was the first resort of about 80% of respondents. Of these, only one report of SP at home was reported. Perceptions towards SP were ominous; ranging from confusion to fear. Treatment seeking differed extensively between cases in children and in adults. More children than adults received prompt treatment at home and health facilities (90% and 12%) respectively. Quality of care at health facilities was the main barrier to proper treatment-seeking. In conclusion, self-diagnosis, self-treatment and treatment-seeking behavior seem to have changed changes in treatment guideline; however, the home remains the primary point of care. Health workers motivation is also very important and caretakers should be equipped with knowledge to improve response to malaria.