Knowledge, perception and attitudes of Zilindo community towards prevalence of Tungiasis.
The study was set to explore knowledge, perceptions and attitudes of Zilindo Community towards prevalence of Tungiasis. To achieve its main objective the study focused on assessing the level of knowledge of the community on Tungiasis. It also determined the community's health seeking behaviour...
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| Format: | Other |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
2022
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| Online Access: | http://nkhokwe.kuhes.ac.mw/handle/20.500.12845/380 |
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Add Tag | Summary: | The study was set to explore knowledge, perceptions and attitudes of Zilindo Community towards prevalence of Tungiasis. To achieve its main objective the study focused on assessing the level of knowledge of the community on Tungiasis. It also determined the community's health seeking behaviour in relation to Tungiasis infection. The study described attitudes and perceptions held by the community about Tungiasis prevalence and measures taken by the community to prevent the disease. The study used qualitative research design and data was collected using in-depth interview schedule. Data was collected from 10 adult Zilindo community members who had once suffered or taken care of a person suffering from Tungiasis. Data analysis was done manually using content and the results presented in a narrative form. The study indicated that there is adequate knowledge of Tungiasis in Zilindo community in relation to disease description, etiological agent and its management. The greatest challenge is that the community does not follow proper treatment practices. Use and sharing of unsterile equipment’s such as sewing needles, razor blades and any sharp pointed objects is a com-mon practice in surgical extraction of jigger flea. This is a serious health threat considering the possibility of transmission of HIV and other blood borne infections. The community does not seek medical care for Tungiasis. This reflects that the community has negative attitude towards Tungiasis medical management as a result they resort to using locally available topical agents such as paraffin and 7 chemical powder which can be detrimental to health. The study has also established lack of support from health workers as manifested by failure of the community to patronize available medical services for the disease. The study further revealed that the community has poor perception of the disease as majority feel ashamed of the disease. This shows that the disease carries a social stigma. General cleanliness and suppression of dust are the commonly used preventive measures by the community. Wearing of shoes appears to be a list used Tungiasis preventive measure. |
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