Knowledge and practices about malaria in a border community Bari, Zulia state, Venezuela

To investigate knowledge, practices and perceptions related to malaria in Bokshi of J.M. Semprun (B) municipality from Zulia state, Western Venezuela, a descriptive study was performed. A questionnaire based survey was used for data collection on behavioural, socio-demographic and epidemiological factors; poverty was measured according the Unsatisfied Basic Needs method. Responses were provided by household heads. In Bokshi, a Bar ethnic group, amongst 39 extreme poverty home heads, most worked as agriculturists. Population mobility was high both from (56%) and toward (85%) Bokshi. Malaria antecedent was 64%. People perceived malaria as an important health problem and had a high knowledge level regarding its clinical diagnosis. 67% considered the mosquito as the malaria cause. More than 90% related malaria cure to antimalarials use, and 61% said they did not use bednets. The level of knowledge about prevention was less consistent and it was linked, mainly, to conventional chemical vector control measures. Practices before febrile episodes favour the conventional surveillance system. Working as an agriculturist was associated significantly to malaria antecedent. Knowing the assessment made by indigenous communities about malaria morbidity, in vulnerable areas, could reinforce local surveillance systems and promote health communication strategies and community participation promotion on malaria control.