MALARIA VECTOR ABUNDANCE, KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES FOR ITS CONTROL AMONGST RESIDENTS OF SELECTED COMMUNITIES IN ABIA STATE, SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Malaria transmission in Nigeria is sustained by high mosquito vector abundance and community attitudes towards control measures. Understanding both entomological and behavioural factors is essential for effective intervention. Adult mosquitoes were collected indoors using human landing catch methods across selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Abia State. Morphological identification revealed the species composition, while sporozoite infection rates were determined by dissecting the mosquitoes' salivary glands. Structured questionnaires were administered to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to vector control. Statistical analyses explored associations between socio-demographic variables and control practices. A total of 446 mosquitoes were collected, with Anopheles gambiae being the predominant species. The mean vector density was six Anopheles per household, with an estimated human biting rate of 0.69. Among female Anopheles, 46.6% were blood-fed, and 22.0% carried sporozoites. Questionnaire responses showed insecticide use (70.8%) as the most preferred control method, while 46.6% of respondents reported using long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). Barriers to LLIN use included discomfort and heat. Awareness of community-level intervention was low (32.4%). Findings highlight that both entomological and socio-behavioural factors sustain malaria transmission. Also, high vector abundance coupled with inconsistent adoption of control measures sustains malaria transmission in Abia State. Strengthening health education programs to improve awareness and promote consistent use of effective interventions, particularly LLINs, is recommended to reduce malaria burden.