Revista de terapia y enfermedades infecciosas

Abstracto

Perceptions of Field Workers and Community Leaders Regarding Vector Control Activities in Urban Vadodara: Excerpts from the Field

Misra S and Shringarpure K

Background: Malaria is a major public health problem in our country affecting all spheres of human life, with Plasmodium falciparum mortality being high. The outbreak proportions are quite alarming in urban areas, although the Urban Malaria Scheme was launched in 1971 to focus on Urban Malaria.

Methods: A Qualitative study was devised to get an in-depth understanding of the overall functioning of the Urban Malaria Scheme run by Vadodara Mahanagar Seva Sadan using Qualitative semi-structured study instruments over a period of 8 months from November 2008 to June 2009. The study was conducted in 12 ward areas of the city. To get first hand information on overall malaria control activities in the city, Focus group discussions were conducted with malaria inspectors, supervisors and field workers, while in-depth interviews were conducted with the medical officer-health, biologist, insect collector and local representation through one community leader from each ward. Data entry was done using Weft QDA software and emerging themes were analyzed using group codes.

Results: Shortage of manpower was evident among all cadres of vector control staff, though availability of commodities and maintenance of equipments was satisfactory. The discussions highlighted a need for refresher training, attention required on part of engineering branch to curb illegal sewage line with storm water drainage. Onethird of the community leaders were aware of vector control activities, almost none were aware about anti-larval activities while less than half were aware about source reduction activities. Half of the community leaders were aware of IEC activities for vector borne diseases.

Conclusion: There is an urgent need to increase staff strength and enact civic bylaws for vector control activities. Inter-departmental co-ordination with the Engineering and Sanitation branch and training of the different work cadres should be considered.