Malaria in Honiara, Solomon Islands: reasons for presentation and human and environmental factors influencing prevalence.

During February and March 1995, out-patients attending health clinics and the Central Hospital in East Honiara, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, were surveyed with the aim of determining factors influencing the differing rates of malaria, the proportion of transmission occurring within the town, and the reasons for presentation. Three hundred and nine adult patients, who were sick and had blood smears taken, were asked about their general knowledge of malaria transmission. Of those interviewed, 120 were visited at their home in East Honiara, to determine variables. EpiInfo 5.1 was used in analysis. A history of fever alone was not a good indicator of parasitemia. Most precautions, including bed nets, window screens and personal precautions were of little benefit. Significant protection was afforded individuals and families with indoor kitchens. Patients not completing their antimalarial treatment fared worse in terms of parasitemia and malaria history. Most malaria/parasitemia was indigenous to Honiara. Many patients had a good knowledge of malaria transmission and mosquitos, but this did not translate into a lower rate of parasitemia or malaria.