Knowledge and treatment seeking pattern of malaria infection in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state

This survey assessed the knowledge and treatment-seeking pattern of malaria infection in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi state. Three hundred and two individuals greater than 18 years old and who had malaria in the previous twelve months took part in the survey. Within the study population, 46% identified mosquitoes as the source of malaria and 73% wrongly believed that mosquitoes do not transmit malaria. Only 22% of the study population used insecticide treated bed nets (ITNs). In the treatment of last infection, 82% self medicated themselves while 18% sought the experience of a health care worker. The study revealed a poor knowledge malaria etiology and extensive use of self-treatment in malaria treatment. Interventions aimed at educating this population on home management of malaria should be explored as this will help in combating malaria.