Knowledge, perceptions and health behavior pertaining to Schistosoma mansoni related illness in Machakos district, Kenya.

This study on indigenous knowledge, preferences and health behavior among households and traditional healers in an area endemic Schistosomiasis mansoni in central Kenya showed that the population used modern and traditional health services interchangeably for intestinal illness with similar results. Cultural, economic and social factors in the utilization of different health services were identified. Antischistosomal treatment in the study population resulted in higher cure rates than those observed either hospital and health center treatment or the use of herbal medicines. Kamba knowledge and perceptions of the causes of water related intestinal illness, several types of preventive behavior and the role of women as health promoters are evaluated. The utilization of these observations in schistosomiasis control programs using the primary health care approach was discussed.