Acceptability of Malaria Treatment for Infants in Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Robert Pool, Adiel Mushi, Joanna Armstrong Schellenberg, Mrisho Mwifadhi, Pedro Alonso, Catherine Montgomery, Marcel Tanner, Hassan Mshinda, David Schellenberg
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
Is intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in infants (IPTi) acceptable when delivered through the expanded programme of immunization?
Conclusion
IPTi is generally acceptable in southern Tanzania, but local priorities and social factors significantly influence adherence.
Supporting Evidence
- IPTi was generally acceptable and resonated with traditional health practices.
- Mothers valued weighing their children and socializing during clinic visits.
- Non-adherence was often due to practical and social factors.
- Information about IPTi spread slowly through the community.
Takeaway
Moms in Tanzania think giving malaria medicine to babies is a good idea, but they want to make sure it fits with their usual health practices.
Methodology
Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in self-reported data and social desirability may affect the findings.
Limitations
The study may not fully capture the complexities of community perceptions and behaviors regarding IPTi.
Participant Demographics
Participants included mothers of infants, health workers, and community members from various ethnic backgrounds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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