PALUDISME ET MOYENS DE PROTECTION ENDOGENES EN MILIEU RURAL DANS LA SOUS-PREFECTURE DE BAZRA NATTIS (CENTRE-OUEST IVOIRIEN) MALARIA AND ENDOGENOUS PROTECTION METHODS IN RURAL AREAS IN THE SUBPREFECTURE OF BAZRA NATTIS (CENTRAL-WEST IVORY COAST)

Malaria is a public health problem in the Bazra Nattis sub-prefecture given its prevalence in the general population. For this reason, this study aims to identify local protective measures against malaria in the Bazra Nattis sub-prefecture. The methodology was based on a literature review and field survey. Thus, 334 heads of households were selected as statistical units on the basis of a stratified sample and 10 villages chosen through purposive sampling. The results show that malaria is rife in the area, with a high prevalence rate rising from 29.39% in 2022 to 31.92% in 2024, an increase of 8.6%. Furthermore, 94% of respondents believe that whilst the mild form of malaria is caused by mosquitoes, the severe form is transmitted by witch doctors through their occult and supernatural powers. The study also reveals that the choice of treatment (biomedical medicine, traditional medicine, self-medication) remains linked to the presence or absence of a Rural Health Centre (RHC) in the villages, as well as the cost of treatment and transport to health centres. As a means of protection against Anopheles bites, the population uses impregnated mosquito nets, insecticides (aerosol sprays, smoke coils), fans, protective screens on doors and windows, and home sanitation. However, the study recommends stepping up vector control measures, distributing mosquito nets and raising awareness of protective measures to ensure the equitable implementation of control strategies and measures in both urban and rural areas.