Title:
Spatial effects of mosquito bednets on child mortality
Authors:
Gosoniu, L.
,
Vounatsou, P.
,
Tami, A.
,
Nathan, R.
,
Grundmann, H.
,
Lengeler, C.
Year:
2008
Serial number:
356
Journal:
BMC Public Health
Volume:
8
PAGE:
9
ISSN:
1471-2458
Language:
eng
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Keywords:
children
,
health
Abstract:
Methods: The study was carried out between October 2001 and September 2003 in 25 villages in Kilombero Valley, southern Tanzania. Bayesian geostatistical models were fitted to asses the effect of different bednet density measures on child mortality adjusting for possible confounders.
Results: In the multivariate model addressing potential confounding, the only measure significantly associated with child mortality was the bed net density at household level; we failed to observe additional community effect benefit from bed net coverage in the community.
Conclusion: In this multiyear, 25 village assessment, despite substantial known inadequate insecticide-treatment for bed nets, the density of household bed net ownership was significantly associated with all cause child mortality reduction. The absence of community effect of bednets in our study area might be explained by (I) the small proportion of nets which are treated with insecticide, and (2) the relative homogeneity of coverage with nets in the area. To reduce malaria transmission for both users and non-users it is important to increase the ITNs and long-lasting nets coverage to at least present untreated nets coverage.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Country:
Tanzania, United Republic of
Region:
East Africa
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2008 Gosoniu et al. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License.
Document type:
E-article
File:
121812.pdf