Knowledge and behaviour of individuals towards sandflies' vectors of leishmaniasis in Morocco.

Background Sandflies are active vectors of several diseases, including leishmaniasis, which Morocco hopes to eliminate by 2030. Despite efforts to limit their spread, they still remain a public health problem in the country, as the behaviour of individuals in relation to sandflies plays an important role in the sustainability of the epidemiological cycle. Aims To explore and determine the knowledge and behaviours related to sandfly diseases. Methods A quantitative method was adopted using a questionnaire assisted by a personal interview. Based on the epidemiological situation of leishmaniasis cases reported in recent years in Al-Hajeb province, we conducted a field survey among 281 persons in April and May 2019 residing in the communities where the cases of the disease are registered. Results 61.6% of Moroccans know sandflies by the name "Chniwla"; 44.1% thought that sandflies do not transmit diseases; 41.3% thought they multiplied in contaminated water; 52.7% thought sandfly bites could not be avoided; and 6.4% recognized the role of individuals in the fight against vectors. Conclusions The need to raise public awareness of the risks of sandflies, using the popular concepts obtained to simplify scientific terms and formulate targeted health education strategies that make the individual an active player in vector control.