Experiences of people diagnosed with Malaria at a selected village of Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: There have been extreme cases of Malaria worldwide, nationally as well as regionally, in the Vhembe District. Malaria is a serious health issue despite current efforts and several advancements to control vectors and bite prevention to minimise its burden. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to determine the experiences of people diagnosed with Malaria at Mhinga Village in the Vhembe District. Methodology: A qualitative approach method was used with exploratory, descriptive and contextual designs to get an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. The setting was at the participants’ homes at Mhinga Village, Collins Chabane Municipality, Vhembe District in Limpopo province. A pre-test was conducted with two individuals who were not part of the main study. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to select about 26 participants. However, the final number of participants was determined by data saturation. The data collection tool used was semi-structured individual interviews. Trustworthiness and authenticity were ensured by following the criteria of credibility, dependability, conformability and transferability. Data was analysed through descriptive and interpretive codes to categorise data. The research was conducted ethically following principles of respect, beneficence, justice, confidentiality, and informed consent. Results: The findings described and expressed the experiences of people diagnosed with malaria at Mhinga village, Vhembe District. The findings have resulted in five themes: experiences with signs and symptoms, circumstances prompting immediate consultation, experiences with reaching the healthcare facility, experiences with treatment given in the clinic and hospital, post discharge experience from Mhinga clinic and the hospital Conclusion: The study concluded that the participants still experienced symptoms of malaria before and after obtaining treatment from the clinic and hospital. Contribution: The study adds knowledge about malaria prevention to the participants, reducing its spread and relieving the Department of Health from enormous admissions. Recommendations: The recommendations determined by the study findings are related to implementing measures for eliminating the spread of Malaria.