PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF THE USE OF NATURAL VERSUS SYNTHETIC MOSQUITO REPELLENTS IN GHANA

Abstract

Purpose –– This study examined people's knowledge, taste, and preferences on the use of these ingredients in mosquito repellents.
Methods –– The study adopted questionnaires to solicit public opinions and 303 respondents were conveniently sampled using an
online Google link. Their responses were examined using descriptive analyses and an ordinal regression model.
Findings –– The study identified that 57% of respondents preferred to use mosquito repellents that will contain natural ingredients only, whereas 14% preferred mosquito repellents that will have a combination of both natural and artificial ingredients. The educational status of respondents influences their preference for mosquito
repellent.
Conclusion & Recommendation –– The study concludes that there is a need to educate people on the effects of using synthetic mosquito repellents. Further scientific investigations are required to examine the efficacy of mosquito repellents made from natural ingredients.
Keywords –– Malaria, plant-based repellents, health, efficacy, artificial repellents