Community perception of the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen for controlling malaria vectors in south-eastern Tanzania

Abstract Background The efficacy of the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen to control malaria vectors has been demonstrated under semi field environment in Tanzania. However, the information on how best communities should be engaged for its routine and large-scale adoption are lacking. This study assessed the community’s level of knowledge, perceptions, acceptability on the autodissemination approach, and the perceived risks and safety of pyriproxyfen on the environment. Methods This was a concurrent mixed methods study, comprised of a community-based survey of 400 household representatives and eight focus group discussions (FGDs). The study was conducted in two villages in Mlimba district in south-eastern Tanzania between June and August 2022. For the quantitative data, descriptive statistics were applied using R software, while inductive approach was used for qualitative data analysis, using Nvivo software. Results Knowledge on autodissemination approach was found to be relatively low among the surveyed community members (36%, n = 144). Nevertheless, when the approach was explained to them, the envisioned community support was relatively high (97%, n = 388). One of the major perceived benefits of the autodissemination approach was the reduction of malaria transmitting mosquitoes and associated malaria transmission. Environmental impact of pyriproxyfen on non-target organisms and health risk to children were among of the major concerns. When provided with information on how it works and its safety, 93.5% (n = 374) of the survey respondents said that they would allow the PPF-contaminated pots to be placed around their homes. Similarly, participants of the FGDs were receptive towards the autodissemination approach, but emphasized on the need for raising awareness among community members before related field trials. Conclusion This study indicates a low knowledge but high support for scaling up of the autodissemination approach as a complementary tool for malaria control in rural Tanzania. Our findings suggest that community sensitization activities are required to improve the community’s acceptability and trust of the approach before prior to respective field trials.