Prevalence and associated factors of bed bug infestations (Cimex lectularius) in lubaga division, Kampala capital city, Uganda

Abstract

Background: There has been an increasing public health concern as a result of bed bug infestation, with devastating effects on health and quality of life in Uganda. This study provided the first community-based report on the situation of bed bugs in Lubaga division, Kampala Capital City, Uganda. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study design, in which data was collected using a questionnaire, key informant interview guide and a data abstraction tools. Results: Out of the 356 respondents interviewed, 249(69.9%) had bed bugs in their homes. The study further revealed a significant statistical relationship between the variables of gender, sex, level of education, employment status. The health systems factors that include the availability of professional personnel to control bed bugs, use of effective and recommended chemicals, availability of funds, and resistance of bed bugs to insecticides were all found to have an influence on the risk of bed bugs. Conclusion: The study has established the need to strengthen vector control programs in a city suburb.