Children, pregnant women and the culture of malaria in two rural communities of Ghana

Abstract

The Malaria situation in Ghana is typical of many tropical African countries, where it remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Control methods generally emphasize prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, local experiences and meanings continue to influence help-seeking behaviour, which either promotes risk of infections or prevention. The aim of this study was to elicit relevant contemporary ethnographic features of malaria in children and pregnant women in two rural villages in Ghana for intervention. Ethnographic data collection methods such as free listing and rating, participatory mapping, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were used. Malaria was listed as the most common illness in the study communities. Outside help is sought two to three days after illness onset. Mosquitoes were identified as a major nuisance and a cause of malaria and convulsions. This study highlights sociocultural features of malaria in two rural Ghanaian communities, and it indicates needs for regular re-evaluation of community experiences, meanings and behaviour to inform the implementation and effectiveness of control programmes. © 2007 Taylor & Francis.