Malaria prevention and care seeking among gold miners in Guyana

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244454
• Publication Date: 2020-12-29T18:47:32Z
• Authors: Bolanle Olapeju; Camille Adams; Gabrielle Hunter; Sean Wilson; Joann Simpson; Lyndsey Mitchum; TrishAnn Davis; Jennifer Orkis; Horace Cox; Neil Trotman; Helen Imhoff; Douglas Storey
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study; Mosquito net; Tropical Medicine

Despite being a priority population in malaria elimination, there is scant literature on malaria-related behavior among gold miners. This study explores the prevalence and factors influencing prevention, care seeking treatment behaviors Guyana mining camps. A cross sectional survey was conducted adult miners living camps hinterland Regions 1 (Barima-Waini), 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), 8 (Potaro-Siparuni). Multivariable logistic regressions explored associated with miners’ self-report of mosquito net use, prompt care-seeking; self-medication; testing for malaria. third used night preceding use higher those who believed that norm their camp (aOR: 3.11; 95% CI:1.65, 5.88). Less than half (45%) had fever past 12 months, whom 36% sought promptly, 48% tested positive while 54% self-medicated before care. Prompt care-seeking high knowledge 1.44; CI: 1.01, 2.05). Similarly, rates increased secondary education 1.71; (1.16, 2.51), 1.45; 1.02, 2.05), beliefs regarding transmission, threat, self-diagnosis, treatment, and, trust government services 1.59; CI (1.12, 2.27) experience prior episode 2.62; 1.71, 4.00). Self-medication lower male 0. 52; 0.32, 0.86). Malaria prevention are somewhat low influenced by usage, perceived norms, confirmed Study findings have implications interventions regions such as mass continuous distribution insecticide treated nets well community case management initiatives using trained volunteers to curb transmission remote populations. These include efforts identify address gaps distributing barriers seeking, adherence. Targeted social change messaging needed acquisition, care, care-seeking, Additional ensure overall sustainability initiative publicity miners, incentives promote retention volunteer testers public private partnerships between Ministry Health relevant organizations.