Beliefs Concerning Malaria in Karen Hilltribe Community

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study beliefs concerning malaria in a Karen community, Mae Ramard District, Tak Province. The data was collected through applied anthropology methods, namely household census and mapping, group interviews, indepth interviews, and participant-observation, for a period of three consecutive months. The results indicated that beliefs concerning malaria of the most villagers was not  conformed to the current scientific knowledge (causation, transmission, perceived susceptility and malaria prevention).

Recommendations for malaria control included: 1) To emphasize community education in order to provide knowledge concerning malaria causation, transmission, and prevention. Educationl measures should involve head of community, heads of household spouses.

2) To coordinate with other ministries on the development of community infrastructure.

3) To educate community on agricultural menthods in order to increase income and improve standard of living.