Introduction: Insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) are commonly used as a physical barrier to prevent malaria infection. One of the most important ways to reduce the burden of malaria in sub-Saharan Africa is through the use of ITNs. However, there is a lack of adequate information on the use of ITNs and associated factors in Ethiopia.
Insecticide-treated bed nets are a cost-effective vector control strategy for malaria prevention and should be treated with insecticides and regularly maintained. This means that the use of insecticide-treated bed nets in areas with high malaria prevalence is a highly effective way to prevent malaria transmission1. According to the World Health Organization in 2020, almost half of the world’s population is at risk of malaria, with most cases and deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia. However, large numbers of cases and deaths have also been reported in the WHO South-East Asia, Eastern Mediterranean, Western Pacific and Americas regions1,2.
Instruments: Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and an observation checklist, which was developed based on relevant published studies with some modifications31. The study questionnaire consisted of five sections: socio-demographic characteristics, use and knowledge of ITN, family structure and household size, and personal/behavioural factors, designed to collect important information about the participants. This checklist had the ability to circle the observations made. It was attached next to each household questionnaire so that field staff could check their observations without interrupting the interview. As an ethical statement, the participants of our study included human subjects and studies involving human subjects must be in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Therefore, the institutional committee of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University approved all procedures including any relevant details, which were carried out in accordance with the relevant guidelines and regulations, and informed consent was obtained from all participants.
In some areas, there may be misunderstandings or resistance to the use of insecticide-treated nets, leading to low uptake. Some areas may face unique challenges such as conflict, displacement, or extreme poverty that can severely limit the distribution and use of insecticide-treated nets, such as Benishangul Gumuz Metekel district.
This difference may be due to a number of factors, including the time interval between studies (an average of six years), differences in awareness and education on malaria prevention, and regional differences in promotional activities. Use of insecticide-treated nets is generally higher in areas with effective educational interventions and better health infrastructure. In addition, local cultural practices and beliefs may also influence people’s acceptance of net use. Since this study was conducted in malaria-endemic areas with better health infrastructure and distribution of insecticide-treated nets, accessibility and availability of nets may be higher in this area compared to areas with lower use.
The association between age and ITN use may be due to a number of factors: young people tend to use ITNs more often because they feel more responsible for their children’s health. In addition, recent health promotion campaigns have effectively targeted younger generations and increased their awareness of malaria prevention. Social influences, including peer and community practices, may also play a role, as young people tend to be more receptive to new health advice.
In addition, they tend to have better access to resources and are often more willing to adopt new methods and technologies, making them more receptive to the continued use of insecticide-treated nets.
Post time: Jun-09-2025