Community Knowledge and Perceptions of Sandflies, Sandfly Bites and Associated Health Risks Among Residents of Umucheke Okwe in Onuimo Local Government Area IMO State Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47363/JIDSCR/2026(7)212Keywords:
Sandflies, Community Knowledge, Perceptions, Sandfly Bites, Leishmaniasis, Vector-Borne DiseasesAbstract
Background: The study assessed knowledge and perceptions of sandflies, sandfly bites and associated health risks among residents of Umucheke Okwe in Onuimo Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria.
Methods: A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adults aged 18 years and above. Respondents were selected using a multistage sampling approach. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, awareness and recognition of sandflies, knowledge of biting behaviour and health risks, perceptions, suspected bites and preventive practices. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The result showed that, of the 300 respondents, 77.0% had heard of sandflies, while 66.0% reported having seen an insect they believed to be a sandfly. Although 69.0% associated sandfly bites with itching and 63.0% with skin irritation, only 24.0% knew of their association with leishmaniasis, while 31.0% incorrectly believed that sandflies transmit malaria. Overall, 59.0% reported experiencing a suspected sandfly bite. Insecticide-treated nets (56.0%) and vegetation clearing (49.0%) were the most commonly reported preventive measures. Educational attainment was significantly associated with knowledge (χ² = 28.61, p < 0.001), as was age (χ² = 10.42, p = 0.034), whereas sex and occupation were not significantly associated with knowledge (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Residents demonstrated relatively high general awareness of sandflies but limited knowledge of their specific biological characteristics and potential disease-transmission role. Targeted community health education focusing on sandfly identification, leishmaniasis, prevention and appropriate health-seeking behaviour is recommended.
