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.
Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. This persistent threat highlights the urgent need for sustained public health efforts to combat the disease.
The study was conducted in Pawi Woreda, one of the seven districts of Metekel Region of Benshangul-Gumuz National Regional State. Pawi District is located 550 km southwest of Addis Ababa and 420 km northeast of Asosa in Benshangul-Gumuz Regional State.
The sample for this study included the head of the household or any household member aged 18 years or older who had lived in the household for at least 6 months.
Respondents who were severely or critically ill and unable to communicate during the data collection period were excluded from the sample.
Respondents who reported sleeping under a mosquito net in the early morning before the interview date were considered users and slept under a mosquito net in the early morning on observation days 29 and 30.
Several key strategies were implemented to ensure the quality of the study data. First, data collectors were fully trained to understand the objectives of the study and the content of the questionnaire to minimize errors. The questionnaire was initially pilot tested to identify and resolve any issues before full implementation. Data collection procedures were standardized to ensure consistency, and a regular oversight mechanism was established to monitor field staff and ensure protocol adherence. Validity checks were included throughout the questionnaire to maintain the logical consistency of questionnaire responses. Double entry was used for quantitative data to minimize entry errors, and collected data were regularly checked to ensure completeness and accuracy. Additionally, a feedback mechanism was established for data collectors to improve processes and ensure ethical practices, thereby helping to build participant confidence and improve the quality of questionnaire responses.
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.
Post time: Jul-08-2025