Use of pre-packaged chloroquine for the home management of presumed malaria in Malagasy children
2006

Home Management of Malaria in Malagasy Children

Sample size: 420 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ratsimbasoa Arsène, Randrianarivelojosia Milijaona, Millet Pascal, Soarès Jean Louis, Rabarijaona Leon, Rakotoson Benjamin, Malvy Denis, Ménard Didier

Primary Institution: Institut Pasteur de Madagascar

Hypothesis

The study aims to assess the quality of home malaria management with pre-packaged chloroquine in two areas of Madagascar.

Conclusion

Home malaria management should be improved in Madagascar, focusing on communication, training, and access to pre-packaged drugs.

Supporting Evidence

  • 100% treatment compliance was observed with pre-packaged chloroquine.
  • Only 1.6% to 4.5% compliance was noted with non pre-packaged chloroquine.
  • 38% of children treated with non pre-packaged chloroquine tested positive for malaria.
  • 1.3% of children treated with pre-packaged chloroquine tested positive for malaria.

Takeaway

This study looked at how parents in Madagascar treat malaria at home. It found that using pre-packaged medicine is much better than using unpackaged medicine.

Methodology

A cross-sectional investigation was conducted in two communities, focusing on carers, drug sellers, and community-based service providers.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in self-reported data from carers regarding their treatment practices.

Limitations

The study may not represent all areas of Madagascar due to its focus on specific communities.

Participant Demographics

Most participants were mothers, with a median age of 29 years; the study included 420 carers from two communities.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.01

Statistical Significance

p=0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-2875-5-79

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