The role of drug sellers in the management of uncomplicated malaria in Kinondoni municipality

Abstract

A cross-sectional survey was undertaken in Kinondoni Municipality during May-June 2003, to explore the role of drug sellers in the management of uncomplicated malaria. A total of 200 drug sellers were interviewed. The results of this study indicated that over 90% of the drug sellers mentioned mosquitoes as the cause of malaria. About 90% of these drug sellers mentioned ITNs as the key measure in malaria prevention. Headache (90%), joint pains (65%) and fever (64%) were the common symptoms of malaria mentioned by the drug sellers. Fansidar (96.5%), Amodiaquine (81.9%) and Quinine (43.7%) were mentioned as the drugs that are recommended for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria. Of the mentioned correct dosage for adults, SP was (86.5%) and Amodiaquine was (94%), while the correct dosage for children was SP (67%) and only 19.5% for Amodiaquine. About (48.5%) of the drug sellers advise their customers to buy a half dose of antimalarials. In simulated customer interview only (55.6%) of the drug sellers interviewed gave instructions which were clear to the customers and only (44.4%) were correct. Only 18% of the drug sellers requested prescriptions before selling antimalarials. It was concluded that despite having good knowledge on new recommended anti-malarial drugs, the drug sellers do not conform to the required regulations in the treatment of malaria according to national malaria treatment guidelines. These results emphasize need to give more education to the drug sellers on the correct treatment of uncomplicated malaria.