Knowledge and attitudes of private pharmacy auxiliaries regarding the management of malaria: a cross-sectional study conducted in Burkina Faso, 2023
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Background Eliminating malaria by 2030 is a challenge shared by all stakeholders in Burkina Faso's healthcare system. Pharmacy auxiliaries, who are positioned at the forefront of private pharmacies, are frequently consulted in areas with high malaria transmission rates by the population. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in the commune of Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso) from May to November 2023 among 242 auxiliaries. The aim of this study was to assess their level of knowledge and attitudes regarding malaria management in accordance with current guidelines. The data were analysed using RSTUDIO software and the Chi-square test was employed to identify associated factors with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results The median age of the auxiliaries was 34, with a sex ratio (male/female) of 1/15. Most of them (66.1%) had more than four years of experience, and 70.3% possessed the required qualifications. More than 50% of the auxiliaries demonstrated good knowledge of malaria. This knowledge was higher in the group of those who have a first-cycle diploma (p < 0.05). This knowledge was associated with their qualification and participation in malaria training sessions (p < 0.05). Regarding attitudes, deficiencies were noted in the diagnosis of malaria and the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in pregnant women (less than 50%). An appropriate attitude towards pregnant women was significantly associated with years of experience ((p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion This study revealed a good knowledge among pharmacy auxiliaries regarding malaria. However, further efforts are required to improve appropriate attitudes in response to malaria cases. It is crucial to ensure the availability of rapid diagnostic tests and differential diagnosis algorithms. Additionally, knowledge enhancement should also target pharmacies setting to contribute effectively to the elimination of malaria by 2030.
