Human Behavior, Livelihood, and Malaria Transmission in Two Sites of Papua New Guinea

Abstract Background Malaria transmission is currently resurging in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In addition to intervention coverage, social and cultural factors influence changes in epidemiology of malaria in PNG. This study aimed to better understand the role of human behavior in relation to current ma...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Journal of infectious diseases 2021-04, Vol.223 (Supplement_2), p.S171-S186
Main Authors: Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Daniela, Katusele, Michelle, Auwun, Alma, Marem, Magdalene, Robinson, Leanne J, Laman, Moses, Hetzel, Manuel W, Pulford, Justin
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Animals
Anopheles
Cross-Sectional Studies
Demography
Disease transmission
Employment
Epidemiology
Focus Groups
Health behavior
Human Activities
Humans
Insect Bites and Stings
Insecticides
Interviews as Topic
Malaria
Malaria - epidemiology
Malaria - prevention & control
Malaria - transmission
Male
Mosquito Control - methods
Outdoor activities
Papua New Guinea - epidemiology
Social Behavior
Sociodemographics
Supplement
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Summary:Abstract Background Malaria transmission is currently resurging in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In addition to intervention coverage, social and cultural factors influence changes in epidemiology of malaria in PNG. This study aimed to better understand the role of human behavior in relation to current malaria control efforts. Methods A mixed-method design was used in 2 sites in PNG. In-depth interviews, focus group discussions, cross-sectional malaria indicator survey, and population census were implemented. Results We identified 7 population groups based on demographics and behavioral patterns with potential relevance to Anopheles exposure. People spend a substantial amount of time outdoors or in semiopen structures. Between 4 pm and 8 am, all types of activities across all groups in both study sites may be exposing individuals to mosquito bites; sleeping under a long-lasting insecticidal net was the exception. The later in the night, the more outdoor presence was concentrated in adult men. Conclusions Our findings highlight the potential of outdoor exposure to hamper malaria control as people spend a remarkable amount of time outdoors without protection from mosquitoes. To prevent ongoing transmission, targeting of groups, places, and activities with complementary interventions should consider setting-specific human behaviors in addition to epidemiological and entomological data.
ISSN:0022-1899
1537-6613
DOI:10.1093/infdis/jiaa402