Abstract

The implementation of a vector control strategy needs to be adapted to both socioculturaland environmental contexts. The determination of National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) to fight effectively against malaria resulted in their decision to implement indoor residual spraying (IRS) in the department of Atacora in the Northwest of Benin. This study assessed community knowledge, perceptions and practices about malaria prevention especially about Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), as well as data related to the type of human dwellings. Cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October, 2010. The results of a total of 7,878 respondents show little knowledge of populations about malaria. There was however a variety of protective measures against mosquito bitesincluding bednets which are the most used. Moreover, IRS was accepted by 98.74% of respondents. Most (79.84%) of the walls were smooth and lend themselves well to the insecticide treatment.

Key words: Malaria prevention, community, knowledge, perceptions, practices, physical environment aspect, indoor residual spraying (IRS), Benin.