Knowledge, attitudes and practices on malaria and mosquitoes in the Far- North Region of Cameroon

Background Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Cameroon, particularly in the Far-North Region. Despite nationwide implementation of control strategies, the disease continues to pose a substantial burden. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding malaria and mosquito vectors among residents of the Far-North Region of Cameroon. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted across 50 villages in the Far-North Region from August to September 2020. A total of 500 households were selected through cluster sampling for interviews using a structured questionnaire to evaluate socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices related to malaria and mosquitoes. Results The study revealed that while awareness of malaria transmission was high (88.2% attributed it to mosquito bites), significant gaps existed in understanding mosquito biology, with 48.4% unaware of the vector's sex and 67.2% ignorant of larval habitats. Although insecticide-treated net (ITN) ownership and usage were nearly universal (98.8% and 96%, respectively), 27.6% of households repurposed them for non-protective uses. Furthermore, improper net care practices, such as drying in direct sunlight (58.8%), were common. Self-medication (34.4%) and reliance on plants (72.4%) for malaria treatment were prevalent, highlighting gaps in formal healthcare access. A total of 50 plant species were identified for treating malaria, with Azadirachta indica being the most common (55.26%). Conclusions This research demonstrates critical gaps in knowledge and suboptimal practices that hinder malaria control efforts in northern Cameroon. The findings underscore the urgent need for community-tailored educational campaigns that address misconceptions about mosquito biology, promote correct and consistent use of ITNs, and integrate safe, effective traditional practices with formal healthcare services to improve malaria prevention and treatment outcomes.