Knowledge, Risk Factors and Practices about Bed bugs in Rural Eastern Tanzania

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Abstract Background: Evidence-based strategies are needed to counter the increasing problem of bed bug infestations. We assessed community knowledge, risk factors and practices on bed bugs because they are essential for enhancing community commitment to control efforts. Methods: We conducted a descriptive social survey using structured questionnaire and direct observations in selected villages of Morogoro Rural District, Eastern Tanzania. Results: Total of 260 respondents participated, 53.08% (138/260) females and 46.92% (122/260) males; and majority had primary education (68%, 177/260). Majority were aware of at least one control measure against bed bugs including chemical insecticides, washing bedclothes and sunlight. Insecticides were considered the most powerful measure (Mkuyuni 81.82%, 27/33; Mfumbwe 44.82%, 26/58; Changa 34.91%, 59/169). Majority were able to identify bed bugs (Mfumbwe 87.93%, 51/58, Changa 63.31%, 107/169; Mkuyuni 51.52%, 17/33). Over 95% of respondents were aware that bed bugs reproduce by laying eggs and could identify them. Considerable proportion was aware of certain effects of bed bugs (Mkuyuni 75.76%, 25/33; Changa 53.87%, 91/169; Mfumbwe 46.55%, 27/58). Over 60% (156/260) of households presented several risk features and main ones were cracks on walls (85.75%, 223/260) and floors (92.50%, 241/260), not sleeping on beds (88.09%, 229/260), dusty floors (92.05%, 239/260) and hiding spaces on beds (71.25%, 185/260). Households controlling bed bugs ranged from 41.38% to 45.45%, with up to 100% of those using insecticides. Majority indicated controlling other household pests (Changa 69.23%, 117/169; Mfumbwe 63.79%, 37/58; Mkuyuni 63.64%, 21/33) mainly through insecticides and improved sanitation. The frequency of applying insecticides varied significantly; up to 67.52% of respondents reported periods >1 and ≤4 years. Conclusions: Majority of households in the study communities are in high risk of bed bug infestation. Over 60% of them presented multiple risk features and main ones were cracks on walls/floors, dusty floors, not sleeping on beds, and hiding spaces on beds. Insecticides were the most commonly known/used control measure. Insecticide applications were done without professional guidance and on irregular frequencies thus exposing study communities to high risk of insecticide resistance.

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