Knowledge, attitude and practices towards malaria amongst <i>Almajirai</i> in selected <i>Tsangayu</i> of Gwale and municipal local government areas of Kano State

Abstract

Almajiri refers to young pupils who pursue Qur’anic education under the Almajiranci system. The study aims at assessing the knowledge, attitude and practices towards malaria in selected Almajirai in selected Tsangayu in Kano State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was carried out using stratified random sampling from Gwale and Municipal local governments in the State. An interviewer structured questionnaire is used. The results show that, a total of 356 (78.4%) respondents know malaria. Knowledge about malaria obtained is primarily through Tsangaya teacher having 376 (82.8%). Majority, 235(51.8%), of the respondent ascribed malaria to mosquito bite, however 129 (28.8%) mentioned that ingestion of contaminated food can cause the disease. Two hundred and seventy eight 278 (61.2%) respondents mentioned that malaria can be prevented using bed nets. Moreover, 47 (32.4%) of the respondents mentioned fever and (30.40%) mention vomiting /diarrhoea as symptoms of malaria. Three hundred and twenty two 322 (70.9%) respondents indicated that they are avoiding mosquito bite by using bed nets as blankets; 31 (6.8%) mentioned that they normally use smoke of dry peels of lemon to avoid mosquito bites With respect to treatment seeking behaviour, a considerable number of the respondents (198, 43.6%) mentioned that they obtain treatment from chemist when they have an episode of fever, 136 (30.0%) mentioned that they self-medicate using drugs bought from vendors; 3 (11.7%) seek treatment from Tsangaya teacher 59 (13.0%) of the respondents do not seek any treatment. From the findings of this study, it can be concluded that, Almajirai have negative attitude towards malaria. Community mobilization and health education regarding the importance of using ITNs to prevent malaria and save lives shall be considered.