Disease Trends and Reassessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Stakeholders in Trypanosomiasis-Prone Areas of Malawi: A One Health Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31674/mjmr.2026.v010i01.002Abstract
Background: Trypanosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by Trypanosoma parasites, transmitted primarily by the tests fly vector and, in some instances, by other biting insects. In Sub-Saharan Africa, both the human and animal forms of the disease pose serious challenges, as they hinder agricultural productivity, affect human health, and impede national development. In Malawi, the three pillars of Vision 2063—agricultural productivity and commercialization, industrialization, and urbanization—may be significantly affected by the continued presence of trypanosomiasis, compromising the nation’s long-term developmental goals. Objectives: To review disease trends by comparing prevalence data and assessing stakeholders’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in trypanosomiasis-prone areas of Malawi, in order to inform prevention and control efforts. Methods: Peer-reviewed articles written in English were retrieved from various databases using targeted search phrases related to trypanosomiasis, disease prevalence, and KAP in Malawi. Retrieved studies were examined to map disease hotspots and characterize each focus area based on stakeholders’ KAP. Results: This review has revealed that knowledge gaps regarding trypanosomiasis significantly influence stakeholders’ attitudes and practices toward its prevention and control. These gaps contribute to sustained disease prevalence across trypanosomiasis-prone areas of Malawi. Conclusion: Strengthening community awareness and education campaigns could reduce knowledge gaps, improve attitudes and practices, and ultimately enhance the effectiveness of trypanosomiasis prevention and control efforts in Malawi and other endemic regions.
Keywords:
Trypanosomiasis, Tsetse fly, One Health, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP), MalawiDownloads
References
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