Merveille Koissi Savi1, Daniel Callo-Concha2,3, Henri E Z Tonnang4, Christian Borgemeister2. 1. Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, 53113, Bonn, Germany. koissi.savi@uni-bonn.de. 2. Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, 53113, Bonn, Germany. 3. Institute for Environmental Sciences (iES), University of Koblenz-Landau, 76829, Landau, Germany. 4. International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (Icipe), Nairobi, Kenya.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Several studies that aim to enhance the understanding of malaria transmission and persistence in urban settings failed to address its underlining complexity. This study aims at doing that by applying qualitative and participatory-based system analysis and mapping to elicit the system's emergent properties. METHODS: In two experts' workshops, the system was sketched and refined. This system was represented through a causal loop diagram, where the identification of leverage points was done using network analysis. RESULTS: 45 determinants interplaying through 56 linkages, and three subsystems: urbanization-related transmission, infection-prone behaviour and healthcare efficiency, and Plasmodium resistance were identified. Apart from the number of breeding sites and malaria-positive cases, other determinants such as drug prescription and the awareness of householders were identified by the network analysis as leverage points and emergent properties of the system of transmission and persistence of malaria. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings, the ongoing efforts to control malaria, such as the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and larvicide applications should continue, and new ones focusing on the public awareness and malaria literacy of city dwellers should be included. The participatory approach strengthened the legitimacy of the recommendations and the co-learning of participants.
BACKGROUND: Several studies that aim to enhance the understanding of malaria transmission and persistence in urban settings failed to address its underlining complexity. This study aims at doing that by applying qualitative and participatory-based system analysis and mapping to elicit the system's emergent properties. METHODS: In two experts' workshops, the system was sketched and refined. This system was represented through a causal loop diagram, where the identification of leverage points was done using network analysis. RESULTS: 45 determinants interplaying through 56 linkages, and three subsystems: urbanization-related transmission, infection-prone behaviour and healthcare efficiency, and Plasmodium resistance were identified. Apart from the number of breeding sites and malaria-positive cases, other determinants such as drug prescription and the awareness of householders were identified by the network analysis as leverage points and emergent properties of the system of transmission and persistence of malaria. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings, the ongoing efforts to control malaria, such as the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and larvicide applications should continue, and new ones focusing on the public awareness and malaria literacy of city dwellers should be included. The participatory approach strengthened the legitimacy of the recommendations and the co-learning of participants.
Authors: Jaimie McGlashan; Michael Johnstone; Doug Creighton; Kayla de la Haye; Steven Allender Journal: PLoS One Date: 2016-10-27 Impact factor: 3.240
Authors: Precious A Dzorgbe Mattah; Godfred Futagbi; Leonard K Amekudzi; Memuna M Mattah; Dziedzorm K de Souza; Worlasi D Kartey-Attipoe; Langbong Bimi; Michael D Wilson Journal: Parasit Vectors Date: 2017-01-13 Impact factor: 3.876