Abstract:
Background: In Dire Dawa Administration more than 83,705 long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs)
have been distributed since 2005. The task now is to ensure that the household members correctly and
consistently use nets in the households.
Objectives: To assess the utilization of LLINs and examine the associated factors in the rural
communities of Dire Dawa Administration. The information obtained from this survey was
essential for refining replacement of LLINs distribution programs and for developing effective
communication for optimal net use.
Methods: A community–based cross-sectional study using a multi-stage sampling procedure and
interviewer-administered questionnaire was conducted in 759 households for the study subjects from
January to June 2009. The sample size was calculated using the formula for estimating a single
proportion, assuming 60% under five children had slept under the nets the night preceding the survey.
Results: Of the 759 households surveyed, 339(44.7%) the households were reported as being utilized
LLINs the previous night. There were 1299 LLINS in the 709 households and 538 (41.4%) of these
LLINs were utilized. Persons reporting sleeping under LLINs the previous night were 29.5 %
overall; 45.6% under-five children, and 83.3% pregnant women respectively. Availability of
separate bed/mat and status of the LLINs significantly associated with LLINs utilization.
Conclusion and Recommendation: Most LLINs were distributed more than two years before,
and majorities were in bad condition at the time of the survey. Therefore, it is recommended that
verbal communication during distribution should be complemented with tested flyers with key
message as back-up references. In addition, health extension workers as well as health
professionals should strengthen health education activities about the benefit and utilization of
LLINs to the community.
