Malaria Prevention Through Bed Net Use: A Community-Based Study in Kaligesing, Central Java

Abstract

Background: Malaria is a potentially fatal disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. This study aimed to identify factors associated with malaria knowledge, bed-net use, and bed-net quality in a high-risk area.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2020 in the Kaligesing Primary Health Center catchment area, Purworejo District, Central Java, Indonesia. Individuals aged 5–55 years who had suspected malaria symptoms, lived in a predefined high-risk area, or had travelled to a malaria-endemic area. Individuals with severe or complicated falciparum malaria, malnutrition, non-malarial infections, pregnancy, or breastfeeding were excluded. Of 35 recruited participants, 32 with complete questionnaire data were analysed. Variables included sociodemographic characteristics, malaria knowledge, bed-net use, and bed-net physical quality. Data were summarized using frequencies and percentages, and associations were tested using the chi-square test.

Result: Participants aged 20–40 years comprised 50.0% (16/32). Females accounted for 40.6% (13/32), 40.6% had completed high school, and 34.4% were employees. Good malaria knowledge was observed in 93.8% (30/32). Bed nets were used by 59.4% (19/32), and 89.5% (17/19) of users had good-quality nets. Occupation was significantly associated with bed-net use (p-value=0.007) and showed a moderate positive association (  = 0.469).

Conclusion : Occupation was associated with bed-net use. Despite good malaria knowledge and bed-net quality, use remained suboptimal, highlighting the need for targeted interventions among high-risk occupational groups.