Abstract:
This study evaluated public knowledge of Rapid Diagnosis Test Kits for early detection of
malaria parasites in rural communities of Nasarawa State. The objectives of the study were
to: determine the prevalence level of malaria in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa
State, ascertain the level of public awareness of RDT kits in the local government area, find
out if RDT kits are used in health centres in the local government area and evaluate public
perception of the RDT kits in the area. The data collected were qualitatively analyzed using
explanation building method. Findings indicated that there was high prevalence of malaria
among the study population and that although there were some levels of knowledge about
RDT kits, their usage is minimal. The study concluded that adequate information about the
viability and necessity of the kits should be designed and disseminated to the communities.
Based on these findings and conclusion the study recommended, among others, that
government, public spirited individuals and non-governmental organizations should
sponsor the propagation of information on the use of the kits among the study population to
encourage understanding and acceptance of the kits in Karu Local Government Area.
