Two Step-Flow Communication and Malaria revention in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State

Abstract

This study evaluates the influence of two-step-flow communication on malaria prevention in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State. The study is anchored on the Uses and Gratification Theoiy while survey method was adopted for data collection. Findings from the study show that malaria prevention messages are available to residents of Makurdi Local Government Area; and that the channels through which these messages get to the residents include radio, television, newspapers and opinion leaders. Further findings reveal that of these channels, opinion leaders hold the most appeal for the residents and exert the highest influence on . them with regards to malaria prevention. The study recommends, inter alia, that health communicators, international organizations and agencies should engage opinion leaders maximally in efforts at preventing malaria. In spite of its influence, there has to be synergy between Two-Step Flow Communication and other channels of communication for enhanced results.