2025/06/23 by Ardjima NABA, Athanase Wendmèté OUMSAORE, Abdramane BERTHE, Abdoul Galilou SAWADOGO, Mariétou ZOBO, Lalla BERTHE/SANOU & Patrice TOE
#FOS: Languages and literature
paper · doi:10.48734/akofena.n016.vol.5.11.2025
Abstract: The link between mosquitoes and disease transmission is well-documented; however, social perceptions of the mechanisms by which diseases are transmitted through mosquitoes remain understudied. Understanding these perceptions is crucial, as they directly influence behaviors related to preventive measures and vector control efforts. This study investigates how the population of Dédougou conceptualizes the specific mechanisms of disease transmission by mosquitoes. It is part of the ArboSUD project, which examines the environmental, viral, human, and societal determinants of arboviral risk in Camargue and Burkina Faso. This qualitative study was conducted in two phases: an exploratory phase (December 2021 to February 2022) and an in-depth phase (July to November 2024). A total of 104 individual and two focus groups were conducted with both a baseline population and a control population. Thematic analysis was conducted using QDA Miner software. The study reveals a blend of biomedical understanding and prevalent beliefs. The predominant perception is that mosquitoes transmit diseases through the direct transfer of contaminated blood, which contrasts with scientific knowledge that identifies specific pathogens as the actual agents of transmission. Explanations for why certain mosquitoes transmit diseases vary widely, ranging from divine intervention to the biological specificities of the insects. While flies are generally associated with food contamination, some believe they can also transmit malaria, although experts disagree. This study highlights a discrepancy between biomedical rationalism and popular beliefs, ultimately confirming that mosquitoes are widely regarded as significant disease vectors. The connection between mosquitoes and diseases is clear; however, gaps persist in the inhabitants’ understanding of the actual mechanisms of disease transmission by vector mosquitoes. The lack of comprehension regarding these mechanisms leads to the perception of mosquitoes as vectors for any contact-related disease. This discrepancy between public perceptions and biomedical knowledge underscores the importance of clear public health messaging regarding vector-borne diseases. Developing appropriate tools to facilitate understanding of the biomedical explanation of disease transmission by mosquitoes is imperative. Keywords: Dédougou, Knowledge, mechanism of disease transmission, mosquitoes, perceptions