Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) relating to malaria in Mashonaland Central, Zimbabwe

A survey among 888 inhabitants of Mashonaland Central reveals that malaria and its symptoms is generally well known. In the area with an altitude below 600 metres 26 pc of those interviewed and their relatives said they had suffered an attack of malaria in the last rainy season, while 6.7 pc of those in the higher areas claimed to have had malaria. The role of mosquitoes is less well known and 44 pc of the people were not really aware that mosquitoes transmit malaria. Less than half of the population knew of an effective protective or preventive means against malaria. Skin repellents as a preventive means were unknown and the understanding of residual spraying against malaria almost non-existent. Knowledge of malaria was less in the age groups over 50 and in the under 16 group. Knowledge of preventive measures against malaria was less in the higher incidence area.