Background: Malaria is a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. In Uganda,
malaria is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality especially among
children under five years of age. This pilot project promoted prevention of
malaria at household level using an integrated approach in 2 rural communities
in Wakiso district, Uganda. This involved advocating and implementing several
strategies in a holistic manner geared towards reduction in the occurrence of
malaria. The specific strategies included installing mosquito proofing in
windows and ventilators, draining stagnating water, closing windows and doors
early in the evenings, and sleeping under ITNs.Methods:The objectives of the project were to: carry out a baseline survey on malaria prevention; train community health workers and increase awareness on the integrated approach of malaria prevention; and establish demonstration sites using the integrate approach.
Results:
The project conducted a survey among 376 participants which generated information on the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the community on malaria prevention. 25 community health workers were trained and over 200 members among the general population sensitized on the integrated approach of malaria prevention. 40 demonstration households using the integrated approach were established.
Conclusion:
The results from this pilot project showed that the integrated approach to malaria prevention was well received by the study communities, which could be scaled up to more areas in Uganda and other malaria endemic countries.
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