Knowledge, Attitude and use of Insecticide Treated Nets by Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at NomehUnateze Community Primary Health Care Centre, Enugu State Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is a major public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Malaria infection especially in pregnancy is a public health concern, with emphasis on the risk involved for the mother as well as the fetus. Knowledge, attitude and use of insecticide treated nets among pregnant women cannot be overemphasized because of the economic impact it has on a country, which is seen especially in developing countries like Nigeria. A descriptive cross sectional study was analyzed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 29 and data were collected from a total number of 322 respondents using interviewer administered pretested questionnaire. In this survey, 90.4% were aware of insecticide treated nets from various sources of information. 42.5% of the respondents were between the age group 25-29years. 70.7% of the respondents knew what insecticide treated nets are.  Owned an insecticide treated net while, 61.8% of the respondents who slept under the insecticide treated net everyday. Amongst the 35.4% of the respondents that did not own an insecticide treated nets, 28.95 of them did not know where to get one, 27.2% would not buy unless the government gave them, 21.9% thought that insecticide treated nets were not available in their area, 17.5% were not interest and 4.4% felt insecticide treated nets were expensive. Although the results revealed positive attitude of pregnant women towards the use of insecticide treated nets with regards to information gotten from health workers, it is important that the needs and concerns of those who do not have insecticide treated nets be addressed. In conclusion, it is recommended that pregnant women should be educated on the importance of insecticide treated nets at large with adequate provision of these nets free by the government and this findings supports policy makers and health practitioners in strengthening malaria prevention and maternal health program.