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Awasthi KR, Jancey J, Clements ACA, Rai R, Leavy JE. Community engagement approaches for malaria prevention, control and elimination: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081982. [PMID: 38365295 PMCID: PMC10875526 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally malaria programmes have adopted approaches to community engagement (ACE) to design and deliver malaria interventions. This scoping review aimed to understand, map, and synthesise intervention activities guided by ACE and implemented by countries worldwide for the prevention, control and elimination of malaria. METHODS Three databases (Web of Science, Proquest, and Medline) were searched for peer-reviewed, primary studies, published in English between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2022. Advanced Google was used to search for grey literature. The five levels of the International Association for Public Participation were used to categorise ACE - (1) Inform, (2) Consult, (3) involve, (4) Collaborate, and (5) Co-lead. Intervention activities were categorised as health education (HE), and/or health services (HS), and/or environmental management (EM). Outcomes were collected as knowledge, attitude, behaviour, help-seeking, health and HS and environment. Enablers and barriers were identified. Malaria intervention phases were categorised as (1) prevention (P), or (2) control (C), or (3) prevention and control (PC) or prevention, control and elimination (PCE). RESULTS Seventy-five studies were included in the review. Based on ACE levels, most studies were at the inform (n=37) and involve (n=26) level. HE (n=66) and HS (n=43) were the common intervention activities. HE informed communities about malaria, its prevention and vector control. EM activities were effective when complemented by HE. Community-based HS using locally recruited health workers was well-accepted by the community. Involvement of local leaders and collaboration with local stakeholders can be enablers for malaria intervention activities. CONCLUSION Involving local leaders and community groups in all stages of malaria prevention programmes is vital for successful interventions. Key elements of successful ACE, that is, consult, collaborate, and co-lead were under-represented in the literature and require attention. National programes must consult and collaborate with community stakeholders to develop ownership of the interventions and eventually co-lead them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Raj Awasthi
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jonine Jancey
- Western Australian Centre for Health Promotion Research, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Rajni Rai
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Yadav U, Pandey J. Molecular Docking Studies of Rifampicin - rpoB complex: Repurposing Drug Design Implications for against Plasmodium falciparum Malaria through a Computational Approach. Drug Res (Stuttg) 2023; 73:164-169. [PMID: 36623818 DOI: 10.1055/a-1974-9028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is one of the world's most devastating diseases, infecting well over 300 million people annually and killing between 2 and 3 million worldwide. Increasing parasite resistance to many existing drugs is exacerbating disease. Resistance to commonly used malarial drugs is increasing the need to develop new drugs urgently. Due to the slow pace and substantial costs of new drug development, repurposing of old drugs which is recently increasingly becoming an attractive proposition of highly efficient and effective way of drug discovery led us to study the drug rifampicin for this purpose. The present paper aims to investigate the route of Plasmodium falciparum apicoplast-targeted proteins that putatively encode β subunits of RNA polymerase with an objective to develop an effective antimalarial drug. Homology searching for conserved binding site to the rifampicin drug and the functional analysis of rpoB gene were done. Multiple Sequence alignment analysis of rpoB was compared with that in E.coli - rpoB and M. tuberculosis - rpoB. Docking studies of Rifampicin - rpoB complex was also done for finding binding affinity. The results of computational studies showed that rifampicin is a potential drug for malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upasana Yadav
- Amity School of Applied Sciences Lucknow, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, India
| | - Jaya Pandey
- Amity School of Applied Sciences Lucknow, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, India
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Thet MM, Khaing MNT, Zin SS, Thein ST, Tesfazghi K. Choice of health providers and health-seeking behaviour among forest goer population in Myanmar: findings from a cross-sectional household survey. Malar J 2022; 21:382. [PMID: 36517905 PMCID: PMC9749299 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04356-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Myanmar, malaria still poses a significant burden for vulnerable populations particularly forest goers even though impressive progress has been made over the past decade. Limited evidence existed related to forest goers' health-seeking behaviour and factors that drive decision making for providers' choice to support national malaria programmes towards elimination. In response to that, this research is conducted to identify who they preferred and what are the factors associated with providers' choice in malaria febrile illness and Rapid Diagnostic Testing (RDT). METHODS A cross-sectional study applying quantitative household survey was completed with 479 forest goer households in 20 malaria endemic townships across Myanmar. The household data was collected with the types of providers that they consulted for recent and previous febrile episodes. To identify the factors associated with providers' choices, univariate and multivariate multinomial logistic regressions were done using Stata version 14.1. Statistical significance was set as p = 0.05. RESULTS A total of 307 individuals experienced fever within one month and 72.3% sought care from providers. Also, a total of 509 forest goers reported that they had a previous febrile episode and 62.6% received care from a provider. Furthermore, 56.2% said that they had RDT testing during these previous febrile illnesses. They consulted public facilities and public health staff, private facilities, private and semi-private providers, community health volunteers or workers in their residing village and those located outside their villages but majority preferred those within their villages. On multivariate analyses, second richest quintile (public, RRR = 12.9) (semi-private, RRR = 17.9), (outside, RRR = 8.4) and access to 4 and above nearby providers (public, RRR = 30.3) (semi-private, RRR = 1.5) (outside, RRR = 0.5) were found to be significantly associated with provider choice for recent fever episode. Similar findings were also found for previous febrile illness and RDT testing among forest goers. CONCLUSIONS It was highlighted in this study that in forest goer households, they preferred nearby providers and the decision to choose providers seemed to be influenced by their access to number of nearby providers and socio-economic status when they sought care from a provider regardless of fever occurrence location. It was important that the national programmes considere involving these nearby providers in elimination efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Me Thet
- Population Services International Myanmar, No.16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4Th Street, Bahan Township, 11201 Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Myat Noe Thiri Khaing
- Population Services International Myanmar, No.16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4Th Street, Bahan Township, 11201 Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Su Su Zin
- Population Services International Myanmar, No.16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4Th Street, Bahan Township, 11201 Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Si Thu Thein
- Population Services International Myanmar, No.16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4Th Street, Bahan Township, 11201 Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Kemi Tesfazghi
- Greater Mekong Subregion Elimination of Malaria Through Surveillance (GEMS+), 1120 19Th St NW #600, Washington, DC 20036 USA
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Rahim MAFA, Chuangchaiya S, Chanpum P, Palawong L, Kantee P, Dian ND, Lubis IND, Divis PCS, Kaneko A, Tetteh KKA, Idris ZM. Seroepidemiological surveillance, community perceptions and associated risk factors of malaria exposure among forest-goers in Northeastern Thailand. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:953585. [PMID: 36093204 PMCID: PMC9450859 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.953585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Thailand. Continuous assessment and understanding of the behavior and perceptions related to malaria exposure in the high-risk group are necessary to achieve the elimination goal. This study aimed to investigate the parasite prevalence, seroprevalence rate, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), and malaria risk factors in rural communities living close to a forested area in the northeastern part of Thailand. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in three forest-goer communities (i.e., Ban Khok, Ban Koh, and Dong Yang) located in Khamcha-i district, Mukdahan Province, Thailand, from July to August 2019. Demographic, socioeconomic information and KAP data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Parasite prevalence was determined by microscopy. Seroprevalence was determined via ELISA using two Plasmodium falciparum (PfAMA-1 and PfMSP-119) and two Plasmodium vivax (PvAMA-1 and PvMSP-119) antigens. Age-adjusted antibody responses were analyzed using a reversible catalytic model to calculate seroconversion rate (SCR). Malaria parasite was not detected in any of the 345 participants. The overall malaria seroprevalence was 72.2% for PfAMA-1, 18.8% for PfMSP-119, 32.5% for PvAMA-1, and 4.4% for PvMSP-119. The proportion of seroprevalence for P. falciparum and P. vivax antigens was significantly highest in Ban Koh (35.1%, P < 0.001) and Don Yang (18.8%, P < 0.001), respectively. For all parasite antigens except PvMSP-119, the proportion of seropositive individuals significantly increased with age (P < 0.001). Based on the SCRs, there was a higher level of P. falciparum transmission than P. vivax. Regarding KAP, almost all respondents showed adequate knowledge and awareness about malaria. Nevertheless, significant effort is needed to improve positive attitudes and practices concerning malaria prevention measures. Multivariate regression analyses showed that living in Ban Koh was associated with both P. falciparum (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 12.87, P < 0.001) and P. vivax (aOR 9.78, P < 0.001) seropositivities. We also found significant associations between age and seropositivity against P. falciparum and P. vivax antigens. The data suggest that seroepidemiological surveillance using AMA-1 and MSP-119 antigens may provide further evidence to reconstruct malaria exposure history. The absence of weak evidence of recent malaria transmission in Mukdahan Province is promising in the context of the disease elimination program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Amirul Fitri A. Rahim
- Deparment of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sriwipa Chuangchaiya
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University, Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Zulkarnain Md Idris, ; Sriwipa Chuangchaiya,
| | - Paisit Chanpum
- Vector Borne Disease Unit, Ban Koh Sub-District Health Promoting Hospital, Mukdahan, Thailand
| | - Laun Palawong
- Vector Borne Disease Unit, Ban Koh Sub-District Health Promoting Hospital, Mukdahan, Thailand
| | - Panuwat Kantee
- Vector Borne Disease Unit, Ban Koh Sub-District Health Promoting Hospital, Mukdahan, Thailand
| | - Nor Diyana Dian
- Deparment of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Inke Nadia D. Lubis
- Department of Paediatric, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Paul C. S. Divis
- Malaria Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Akira Kaneko
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kevin K. A. Tetteh
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zulkarnain Md Idris
- Deparment of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Zulkarnain Md Idris, ; Sriwipa Chuangchaiya,
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Aung YK, Zin SS, Tesfazghi K, Paudel M, Thet MM, Thein ST. A comparison of malaria prevention behaviours, care-seeking practices and barriers between malaria at-risk worksite migrant workers and villagers in Northern Shan State, Myanmar-a mixed method study. Malar J 2022; 21:162. [PMID: 35658947 PMCID: PMC9166652 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04193-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Migrant populations are at an increased risk of exposure to malaria due to their nature of work and seasonal migration. This study aimed to compare malaria prevention behaviours and care-seeking practices among worksite migrant workers and villagers in the malaria-at-risk areas of Eastern Myanmar close to the China border. Methods A mixed method study was conducted in March 2019. The malaria-at-risk worksites in the four targeted townships, and villages located the nearest to these worksites were approached. Key stakeholders, such as worksite managers and village leaders, were interviewed. Results A total of 23 worksites, which employed 880 migrants and 447 locals, and 20 villages, which were homes for 621 migrants and 9731 locals, were successfully interviewed. Regarding malaria prevention behaviours, sleeping under a bed net was common among both worksites (74%) and villages (85%). In contrast, insecticide-treated nets/long-lasting insecticidal nets (ITN/LLIN) usage was much lower in the worksites than in the villages (39% vs 80%). Regarding care-seeking practices for febrile illness, self-medication was a popular choice for both worksite workers and villagers owing to the easy availability of western medicine. Moreover, local-belief-driven traditional practices were more common among villagers. For occasions in which fever was not relieved, both would seek health care from rural health centres, private clinics, or public hospitals. As for barriers, villagers mostly cited language barriers, which often lead to misunderstanding between health providers and them. In contrast, most of the worksites cited logistics issues as they were in remote areas with devastated road conditions and the routes to formal health facilities were not secure due to frequent armed conflicts. Conclusion This study demonstrated that site-workers and villagers had different malaria prevention behaviours and care-seeking practices even though they resided in the same geographic area. Hence, it is important to recognize such differences for more effective intervention approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Kyaw Aung
- Strategic Information Department, Population Services International, 16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar.
| | - Su Su Zin
- Strategic Information Department, Population Services International, 16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | - Mahesh Paudel
- Population Services International, Washington, DC, USA
| | - May Me Thet
- Strategic Information Department, Population Services International, 16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Si Thu Thein
- Strategic Information Department, Population Services International, 16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar
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Jongdeepaisal M, Ean M, Heng C, Buntau T, Tripura R, Callery JJ, Peto TJ, Conradis-Jansen F, von Seidlein L, Khonputsa P, Pongsoipetch K, Soviet U, Sovannaroth S, Pell C, Maude RJ. Acceptability and feasibility of malaria prophylaxis for forest goers: findings from a qualitative study in Cambodia. Malar J 2021; 20:446. [PMID: 34823527 PMCID: PMC8613728 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03983-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Greater Mekong Subregion, adults are at highest risk for malaria, particularly those who visit forests. The absence of effective vector control strategies and limited periods of exposure during forest visits suggest that chemoprophylaxis could be an appropriate strategy to protect forest goers against malaria. METHODS Alongside a clinical trial of anti-malarial chemoprophylaxis in northern Cambodia, qualitative research was conducted, including in-depth interviews and observation, to explore the acceptability of malaria prophylaxis for forest goers, the implementation opportunities, and challenges of this strategy. RESULTS Prophylaxis with artemether-lumefantrine for forest goers was found to be acceptable under trial conditions. Three factors played a major role: the community's awareness and perception of the effectiveness of prophylaxis, their trust in the provider, and malaria as a local health concern. The findings highlight how uptake and adherence to prophylaxis are influenced by the perceived balance between benefits and burden of anti-malarials which are modulated by the seasonality of forest visits and its influence on malaria risk. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of anti-malarial prophylaxis needs to consider how the preventive medication can be incorporated into existing vector-control measures, malaria testing and treatment services. The next step in the roll out of anti-malarial prophylaxis for forest visitors will require support from local health workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monnaphat Jongdeepaisal
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mom Ean
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chhoeun Heng
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thoek Buntau
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rupam Tripura
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - James J. Callery
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas J. Peto
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Franca Conradis-Jansen
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Panarasri Khonputsa
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kulchada Pongsoipetch
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ung Soviet
- Provincial Health Department, Stung Treng, Stung Treng Cambodia
| | - Siv Sovannaroth
- grid.452707.3National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Christopher Pell
- grid.450091.90000 0004 4655 0462Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Global Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.7177.60000000084992262Centre for Social Science and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard J. Maude
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK ,grid.38142.3c000000041936754XHarvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, USA ,grid.10837.3d0000000096069301The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
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"We Tried to Borrow Money, but No One Helped." Assessing the Three-Delay Model Factors Affecting the Healthcare Service Delivery among Dengue Patients during COVID-19 Surge in a Public Tertiary Hospital: A Convergent Parallel Mixed Methods Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182211851. [PMID: 34831607 PMCID: PMC8621089 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Identification of delay barriers to care is essential for an effective and efficient healthcare service delivery. In this study, we described the delay in care among parents of the patients seeking treatment for dengue. We also examined the factors affecting the severity of dengue (dengue with warning signs; severe dengue). A convergent parallel design mixed-method approach using Key Informant Interviews (KII) and a survey guided by the Three-Delay Model were conducted among 24 respondents at the National Children’s Hospital (NCH). Coding and thematic analysis using NVIVO and bivariable generalized linear models with a Poisson distribution and robust variance were utilized to analyze the KII transcripts and survey data, respectively. Results showed that financial constraints and previous dengue infection (first delay), mode of transportation, traffic density, and location (second delay), and hospital capacity (third delay) influenced the overall delay uncertainty in seeking care treatment for dengue infection. Furthermore, our bivariable analysis showed that travel time to NCH and place of residency, service given from previous health facilities, and parents’ educational background were associated and played a role in the severity of dengue infection. Interventions focused on the identified factors contributing to delayed care should be made to avoid unwanted clinical outcomes.
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Stratil AS, Vernaeve L, Lopes S, Bourny Y, Mannion K, Hamade P, Roca-Feltrer A, Tibenderana JK, Sovannaroth S, Debackere M. Eliminating Plasmodium falciparum malaria: results from tailoring active case detection approaches to remote populations in forested border areas in north-eastern Cambodia. Malar J 2021; 20:108. [PMID: 33618718 PMCID: PMC7898252 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03622-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Remaining Plasmodium falciparum cases in Cambodia are concentrated in forested border areas and in remote populations who are hard to reach through passive case detection. A key approach to reach these populations is active case detection by mobile malaria workers (MMWs). However, this is operationally challenging because of changing movement patterns of the target population moving into less accessible areas. From January 2018 to December 2020, a tailored package of active case detection approaches was implemented in forested border areas of three provinces in north-eastern Cambodia to reach remote populations and support the elimination of falciparum malaria. METHODS Key elements of this project were to tailor approaches to local populations, use responsive monitoring systems, maintain operational flexibility, build strong relationships with local communities, and implement close supervision practices. MMWs were recruited from local communities. Proactive case detection approaches included mobile malaria posts positioned at frequented locations around and within forests, and locally informed outreach activities targeting more remote locations. Reactive case detection was conducted among co-travellers of confirmed cases. Testing for malaria was conducted independent of fever symptoms. Routine monitoring of programmatic data informed tactical adaptations, while supervision exercises ensured service quality. RESULTS Despite operational challenges, service delivery sites were able to maintain consistently high testing rates throughout the implementation period, with each of 45 sites testing a monthly average of 64 (SD 6) people in 2020. In 2020, project MMWs detected only 32 P. falciparum cases. Over the project period, the P. falciparum/P. vivax ratio steadily inversed. Including data from neighbouring health centres and village malaria workers, 45% (80,988/180,732) of all people tested and 39% (1280/3243) of P. falciparum cases detected in the area can be attributed to project MMWs. Remaining challenges of the last elimination phase include maintaining intensified elimination efforts, addressing the issue of detecting low parasitaemia cases and shifting focus to P. vivax malaria. CONCLUSIONS Reaching remote populations through active case detection should remain a key strategy to eliminate P. falciparum malaria. This case study presented a successful approach combining tailored proactive and reactive strategies that could be transferred to similar settings in other areas of the Greater Mekong Subregion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Siv Sovannaroth
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control (CNM), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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Sidibe A, Maglior A, Cueto C, Chen I, Le Menach A, Chang MA, Eisele TP, Andrinopolous K, Cherubin J, Lemoine JF, Bennett A. Assessing the role of the private sector in surveillance for malaria elimination in Haiti and the Dominican Republic: a qualitative study. Malar J 2019; 18:408. [PMID: 31806025 PMCID: PMC6896765 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-3024-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Haiti and the Dominican Republic (DR) are targeting malaria elimination by 2022. The private health sector has been relatively unengaged in these efforts, even though most primary health care in Haiti is provided by non-state actors, and many people use traditional medicine. Data on private health sector participation in malaria elimination efforts are lacking, as are data on care-seeking behaviour of patients in the private health sector. This study sought to describe the role of private health sector providers, care-seeking behaviour of individuals at high risk of malaria, and possible means of engaging the private health sector in Hispaniola's malaria elimination efforts. METHODS In-depth interviews with 26 key informants (e.g. government officials), 62 private providers, and 63 patients of private providers, as well as 12 focus group discussions (FGDs) with community members, were conducted within seven study sites in Haiti and the DR. FGDs focused on local definitions of the private health sector and identified private providers for interview recruitment, while interviews focused on private health sector participation in malaria elimination activities and treatment-seeking behaviour of febrile individuals. RESULTS Interviews revealed that self-medication is the most common first step in the trajectory of care for fevers in both Haiti and the DR. Traditional medicine is more commonly used in Haiti than in the DR, with many patients seeking care from traditional healers before, during, and/or after care in the formal health sector. Private providers were interested in participating in malaria elimination efforts but emphasized the need for ongoing support and training. Key informants agreed that the private health sector needs to be engaged, especially traditional healers in Haiti. The Haitian migrant population was reported to be one of the most at-risk groups by participants from both countries. CONCLUSION Malaria elimination efforts across Hispaniola could be enhanced by engaging traditional healers in Haiti and other private providers with ongoing support and trainings; directing educational messaging to encourage proper treatment-seeking behaviour; and refining cross-border strategies for surveillance of the high-risk migrant population. Increasing distribution of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and bi-therapy to select private health sector facilities, accompanied by adopting regulatory policies, could help increase numbers of reported and correctly treated malaria cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Sidibe
- Malaria Elimination Initiative, The Global Health Group, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alysse Maglior
- Malaria Elimination Initiative, The Global Health Group, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carmen Cueto
- Malaria Elimination Initiative, The Global Health Group, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ingrid Chen
- Malaria Elimination Initiative, The Global Health Group, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Michelle A Chang
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Thomas P Eisele
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Adam Bennett
- Malaria Elimination Initiative, The Global Health Group, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Sanann N, Peto TJ, Tripura R, Callery JJ, Nguon C, Bui TM, Nofal SD, von Seidlein L, Lek D, Dondorp AM, Cheah PY, Pell C. Forest work and its implications for malaria elimination: a qualitative study. Malar J 2019; 18:376. [PMID: 31771587 PMCID: PMC6880349 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-3008-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the last 20 years, malaria incidence has decreased across the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) and the emergence of artemisinin resistance has stimulated efforts to accelerate regional elimination. In the GMS, the malaria transmission is focused increasingly in forested zones. This article describes forest-going activities and examines forest workers’ attitudes to and experiences of malaria prevention and control in north-eastern Cambodia. Methods In Stung Treng Province, Cambodia, 19 in-depth interviews were conducted in villages with participants recently diagnosed with uncomplicated falciparum malaria who reported working in forests. Two focus group discussions with respondents’ forest-working peers were held. Interviews and focus groups were audio-recorded transcribed, and translated for thematic analysis. Results Forest work is an essential source of income for respondents. Many combine it with farming, which influences the timing and duration of forest visits. Forest activities include logging and collecting other forest products, particularly malva nuts. Men log year-round, whereas gathering forest products is seasonal and can involve entire families. Forest workers sleep chiefly in unimpregnated hammock nets in make-shift encampments. Respondents are concerned about symptomatic malaria, but unfamiliar with the concept of asymptomatic infection. They view the forest as an area of potential malaria infection and seek to protect themselves from mosquito bites through wearing long-sleeved clothes, using repellents, and lighting fires. Forest workers express a willingness to self-test and self-administer anti-malarials. Conclusions Forest workers’ behaviour and perceptions of risk indicate that improvements are needed to current control measures. There is potential to: better target distribution of impregnated hammock nets; offer curative or presumptive treatment while in forests; and expand access to screening. Establishing the efficacy and feasibility of prophylaxis for forest workers in the GMS is a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nou Sanann
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,University Research Company, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. .,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - James J Callery
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chea Nguon
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology, and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Thanh Mai Bui
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Stephanie D Nofal
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Dysoley Lek
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology, and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Phaik Yeong Cheah
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher Pell
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Centre for Social Sciences and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Kuijpers LMF, Gryseels C, Uk S, Chung P, Bory S, Sreng B, Parry A, Jacobs J, Peeters Grietens K. Enteric Fever in Cambodia: Community Perceptions and Practices Concerning Disease Transmission and Treatment. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2019; 99:1369-1377. [PMID: 30298811 PMCID: PMC6283521 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric fever is a systemic bacterial infection in humans that is endemic in Cambodia and for which antibiotic resistance is increasingly reported. To guide public health programs, this qualitative study sought to explore community perceptions on transmission and treatment. Participant observation was carried out in hospital settings, pharmacies, and at a community level in Phnom Penh. In-depth interviews 39 and one focus group discussion were carried out with blood culture–confirmed enteric fever patients and purposively selected key informants. Informants were theoretically sampled based on initial themes identified using abductive analysis. Nvivo 11 was used for thematic coding. An urgent need to address health literacy concerning the transmission of enteric fever was identified, as lay informants did not link the disease and its symptoms to bacterial contamination of foods and drinks but rather to foods considered “bad” following humoral illness interpretations. As a result, lay informants considered recurrence of enteric fever preventable with appropriate dietary restrictions and Khmer traditional medicines. This study also reveals pluralistic health-care–seeking behavior. For initial and mild symptoms, patients preferred home treatment or traditional healing practices; limited household finances delayed treatment seeking. When symptoms persisted, patients first visited drug outlets or private practitioners, where they received a mix of nonessential medicines and one or more antibiotics often without prescription or confirmation of diagnosis. Inappropriate use of antibiotics was common and was related to diagnostic uncertainty and limited finances, factors which should be addressed during future efforts to improve the uptake of appropriate diagnostics and treatment of enteric fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maria Francisca Kuijpers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Gryseels
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sambunny Uk
- Independent Researcher, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Panha Chung
- Sihanouk Hospital Center of HOPE, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | - Bun Sreng
- Department of Communicable Disease Control, Ministry of Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Amy Parry
- Independent Researcher, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Jan Jacobs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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12
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von Seidlein L, Peto TJ, Tripura R, Pell C, Yeung S, Kindermans JM, Dondorp A, Maude R. Novel Approaches to Control Malaria in Forested Areas of Southeast Asia. Trends Parasitol 2019; 35:388-398. [PMID: 31076353 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The emergence and spread of drug resistance in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) have added urgency to accelerate malaria elimination while reducing the treatment options. The remaining foci of malaria transmission are often in forests, where vectors tend to bite during daytime and outdoors, thus reducing the effectiveness of insecticide-treated bed nets. Limited periods of exposure suggest that chemoprophylaxis could be a promising strategy to protect forest workers against malaria. Here we discuss three major questions in optimizing malaria chemoprophylaxis for forest workers: which antimalarial drug regimens are most appropriate, how frequently the chemoprophylaxis should be delivered, and how to motivate forest workers to use, and adhere to, malaria prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher Pell
- Centre for Social Sciences and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Shunmay Yeung
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Arjen Dondorp
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Maude
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
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13
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Adhikari B, Phommasone K, Pongvongsa T, Koummarasy P, Soundala X, Henriques G, Sirithiranont P, Parker DM, von Seidlein L, White NJ, Day NPJ, Dondorp AM, Newton PN, Cheah PY, Pell C, Mayxay M. Treatment-seeking behaviour for febrile illnesses and its implications for malaria control and elimination in Savannakhet Province, Lao PDR (Laos): a mixed method study. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:252. [PMID: 31018855 PMCID: PMC6480816 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4070-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background How people respond to febrile illness is critical to malaria prevention, control, and ultimately elimination. This article explores factors affecting treatment-seeking behaviour for febrile illnesses in a remote area of Lao PDR. Methods Household heads or their representatives (n = 281) were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A total of twelve focus group discussions (FGDs) each with eight to ten participants were conducted in four villages. In addition, observations were recorded as field notes (n = 130) and were used to collect information on the local context, including the treatment seeking behaviour and the health services. Results Almost three-quarters (201/281) of respondents reported fever in past two months. Most (92%, 185/201) sought treatment of which 80% (149/185) sought treatment at a health centre. Geographic proximity to a health centre (AOR = 6.5; CI = 1.74–24.25; for those < 3.5 km versus those > 3.6 km) and previous experience of attending a health centre (AOR = 4.7; CI = 1.2–19.1) were strong predictors of visiting a health centre for febrile symptoms. During FGDs, respondents described seeking treatment from traditional healers and at health centre for mild to moderate illnesses. Respondents also explained how if symptoms, including fever, were severe or persisted after receiving treatment elsewhere, they sought assistance at health centres. Access to local health centres/hospitals was often constrained by a lack of transportation and an ability to meet the direct and indirect costs of a visit. Conclusion In Nong District, a rural area bordering Vietnam, people seek care from health centres offering allopathic medicine and from spiritual healers. Decisions about where and when to attend health care depended on their economic status, mobility (distance to the health centre, road conditions, availability of transport), symptoms severity and illness recognition. Current and future malaria control/elimination programmes could benefit from greater collaboration with the locally accessible sources of treatments, such as health volunteers and traditional healers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bipin Adhikari
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. .,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. .,Kellogg College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Koukeo Phommasone
- Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit (LOMWRU), Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos
| | | | - Palingnaphone Koummarasy
- Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit (LOMWRU), Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos
| | - Xayaphone Soundala
- Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit (LOMWRU), Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos
| | - Gisela Henriques
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Pasathorn Sirithiranont
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Daniel M Parker
- Department of Population Health and Disease Prevention, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas J White
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas P J Day
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul N Newton
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit (LOMWRU), Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos
| | - Phaik Yeong Cheah
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,The Ethox Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher Pell
- Centre for Social Science and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mayfong Mayxay
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit (LOMWRU), Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos.,Institute of Research and Educational Development, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane, Laos
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14
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Nofal SD, Peto TJ, Adhikari B, Tripura R, Callery J, Bui TM, von Seidlein L, Pell C. How can interventions that target forest-goers be tailored to accelerate malaria elimination in the Greater Mekong Subregion? A systematic review of the qualitative literature. Malar J 2019; 18:32. [PMID: 30709399 PMCID: PMC6359845 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-2666-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite decreases in incidence and related mortality, malaria remains a major public health challenge in the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS). The emergence of artemisinin resistance threatens these gains and has prompted efforts to accelerate elimination in the region. In the GMS, transmission now clusters in hotspots along international borders and among high-risk populations, including forest-goers. To eliminate malaria in the region, interventions must target such hard-to-reach populations. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the qualitative research on behaviours and perceptions that influence uptake of and adherence to malaria interventions among forest-goers in the GMS. Methods A systematic search strategy was used to identify relevant sources, including database (OVID SP, PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge) and bibliographic searches. Relevant findings from qualitative research methods were extracted and thematic analysis undertaken. Results Of 268 sources retrieved in searches twenty-two were reviewed. Most reported studies were conducted in Cambodia (n = 10), and were published after 2014 (n = 16). Four major themes emerged that are particularly relevant to the design of intervention packages targeted at forest-goers: (1) understanding of malaria and perceived risk; (2) preventive measures used when visiting the forest; (3) behaviours that put forest-goers at risk of infection; and, (4) malaria-related treatment seeking. There were notable differences across the reviewed articles that suggest the need for a locally tailored approach. Conclusion A more detailed characterization of forest activities is needed but research on this topic raises methodological challenges. Current vector control measures have limitations, with use of insecticidal-treated nets, hammocks and repellents influenced by the type of forest activities and the characteristics of these measures. In contrast, anti-malarial drugs, for example, as chemoprophylaxis, hold promise but require further evaluation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-019-2666-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D Nofal
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. .,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Bipin Adhikari
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - James Callery
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanh Mai Bui
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher Pell
- Centre for Social Sciences and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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15
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'We are always desperate and will try anything to conceive': The convoluted and dynamic process of health seeking among women with infertility in the West Coast Region of The Gambia. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211634. [PMID: 30703136 PMCID: PMC6355002 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In many Sub-Saharan African countries, women with infertility search relentlessly for treatment. Guided by the Partners for Applied Social Sciences model for health seeking behaviour and access to care research, this study aims to understand the health seeking behaviour of women with infertility in the West Coast region of The Gambia and the influence of aetiological beliefs on health seeking paths. Methodology A qualitative approach was used to generate both primary and secondary data for thematic analysis. The data collection methods included in-depth interviews (36), observations (18), informal conversations (42), group discussion (7) and made use of pile-sorting exercises. Sources of secondary data included government and non-governmental reports and media outputs. Results The health seeking approaches of women living in both rural and urban areas were extremely complex and dynamic, with women reporting that they looked for biomedical treatment as well as seeking indigenous treatment provided by local healers, sacred places and kanyaleng groups. While treatment choice was related to the perceived aetiology of infertility, it was also strongly influenced by the perceived effectiveness of the treatment available and the duration of the fertility problems. Other relevant factors were the affordability, accessibility and availability of treatment and respondents’ family and social networks, whereby access to the biomedical health sector was strongly influenced by people’s socio-economic background. Conclusion On the basis of this analysis and our wider research in the area, we see a need for health authorities to further invest in providing information and counselling on issues related to infertility prevention and treatment. The availability of locally applicable guidelines for the management of infertility for both men and women at all levels of the health system would facilitate such work. In addition, the public sphere should provide more space for alternative forms of social identity for both men and women.
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Vilay P, Nonaka D, Senamonty P, Lao M, Iwagami M, Kobayashi J, Hernandez PM, Phrasisombath K, Kounnavong S, Hongvanthong B, Brey PT, Kano S. Malaria prevalence, knowledge, perception, preventive and treatment behavior among military in Champasak and Attapeu provinces, Lao PDR: a mixed methods study. Trop Med Health 2019; 47:11. [PMID: 30700970 PMCID: PMC6347756 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-019-0138-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria is a major health problem in Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) with high transmission in remote and forest areas, particularly in the South. The military is at risk of malaria infection especially those deployed in forest areas. This study determined the prevalence of malaria infection and assessed knowledge, perception, and preventive and treatment behavior regarding malaria among military personnel in two southern provinces in Lao PDR. Methods Quantitative and qualitative approaches were undertaken in Champasak and Attapeu provinces in 2017. From 313 military personnel, quantitative data were collected through questionnaire-based interviews and blood samples used for parasite detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Qualitative data were collected through 7 focus group discussions and 17 in-depth interviews among 49 military personnel. Fisher's exact test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to assess the association between malaria infection and participant characteristics. Content analysis for qualitative data was performed to explore perception and treatment behaviors regarding malaria. Results The prevalence of malaria infection was 11.2% (Plasmodium falciparum: 1.3%, Plasmodium vivax: 9.3% and mixed infections: 0.6%). Many participants understood that malaria is transmitted through mosquito bites, although they did not necessarily know the name of vector mosquitoes (Anopheles). Surprisingly, more than a half also believed that malaria is transmitted through drinking stream water. One-third of the participants used long-lasting insecticidal nets. Due to limited supply, participants were often unable to use mosquito repellent and coils when necessary. Because participants were unable to receive timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment for malaria in their camps, they commonly practiced self-treatment using antibiotics, painkillers, and/or traditional medicines. They only go to a healthcare facility through their supervisor if their conditions worsen. Conclusions The prevalence of symptomatic and asymptomatic malaria was conspicuous among military in forest areas. Many participants believed that malaria is transmitted not only by mosquito bites but also from drinking stream water. Preventive equipment was often insufficient. Self-treatment was practiced before referring to healthcare facility. To further prevent military from contracting malaria, the National Malaria Control Program and military body should provide adequate and suitable health education, protective equipment, and on-site malaria case management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoutnalong Vilay
- 1Department of Global Health, Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of the Ryukyus, 207 Uehara-cho, Okinawa, 903-0215 Japan.,2Center of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR.,SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Daisuke Nonaka
- 1Department of Global Health, Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of the Ryukyus, 207 Uehara-cho, Okinawa, 903-0215 Japan.,SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Phosadeth Senamonty
- Military Institute of Diseases Prevention, Department of Military Medical, Ministry of Defense, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Malayvanh Lao
- Military Institute of Diseases Prevention, Department of Military Medical, Ministry of Defense, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Moritoshi Iwagami
- SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR.,5Department of Tropical Medicine and Malaria, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655 Japan.,6Institut Pasteur du Laos, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Jun Kobayashi
- 1Department of Global Health, Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of the Ryukyus, 207 Uehara-cho, Okinawa, 903-0215 Japan.,SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Paul Michael Hernandez
- 1Department of Global Health, Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of the Ryukyus, 207 Uehara-cho, Okinawa, 903-0215 Japan.,7Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, 625 Pedro Gil Street, Ermita, 1000 Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Sengchanh Kounnavong
- SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR.,9Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Bouasy Hongvanthong
- 2Center of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR.,SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Paul T Brey
- SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR.,6Institut Pasteur du Laos, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Shigeyuki Kano
- SATREPS Project for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR.,5Department of Tropical Medicine and Malaria, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655 Japan
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17
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Taffon P, Rossi G, Kindermans JM, Van den Bergh R, Nguon C, Debackere M, Vernaeve L, De Smet M, Venables E. 'I could not join because I had to work for pay.': A qualitative evaluation of falciparum malaria pro-active case detection in three rural Cambodian villages. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0195809. [PMID: 29649317 PMCID: PMC5897025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0195809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pro-active case detection (Pro-ACD), in the form of voluntary screening and treatment (VSAT) following community mobilisation about ‘asymptomatic malaria’, is currently being evaluated as a tool for Plasmodium falciparum elimination in Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia. Methods A qualitative study was conducted to explore community understanding, perceptions, expectations and acceptability of the Pro-ACD intervention in order to identify aspects that could be improved in future Pro-ACD activities. This was ancillary to a three-round VSAT campaign, carried out in three villages between December 2015 and March 2016. Qualitative data collection began shortly after the end of the three rounds of screening. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. Nine focus group discussions with participants (n = 46) and non-participants (n = 40) in the Pro-ACD screening were conducted, in addition to in-depth interviews with key village figures (n = 9). Results Health promotion messages were well delivered and received, but it was difficult for many villagers to understand the messages around ‘asymptomatic malaria’. Overall, villagers and village leaders had a positive opinion about the VSAT intervention. Acceptability was high, as a direct consequence of favourable perceptions towards the screening activity: the Pro-ACD intervention was seen by the local population as an effective, inexpensive, reliable and readily available tool to protect individuals and the community from the insurgence of malaria. Physical absence and lack of time (both linked to work-related activities) were the main reasons for non-participation. Conclusions Although VSAT was generally well perceived and accepted, the ‘time factor’ related to the need to satisfy essential daily subsistence requirements played a significant role in determining participation in the screening. More well-adapted and meaningful Pro-ACD approaches could be implemented by improving the timing of the testing activites, and strengthening community participation and engagement to increase acceptability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chea Nguon
- Centre for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | | | - Martin De Smet
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Operational Centre Belgium, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Emilie Venables
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Operational Centre Belgium, Brussels, Belgium
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
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Win AYN, Maung TM, Wai KT, Oo T, Thi A, Tipmontree R, Soonthornworasiri N, Kengganpanich M, Kaewkungwal J. Understanding malaria treatment-seeking preferences within the public sector amongst mobile/migrant workers in a malaria elimination scenario: a mixed-methods study. Malar J 2017; 16:462. [PMID: 29132373 PMCID: PMC5683526 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-017-2113-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Migration flows and the emerging resistance to artemisinin-based combination therapy in the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) create programmatic challenges to meeting the AD 2030 malaria elimination target in Myanmar. The National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) targeted migrant workers based mainly on the stability of their worksites (categories 1: permanent work-setting; categories 2 and 3: less stable work-settings). This study aims to assess the migration patterns, malaria treatment-seeking preferences, and challenges encountered by mobile/migrant workers at remote sites in a malaria-elimination setting. Methods A mixed-methods explanatory sequential study retrospectively analysed the secondary data acquired through migrant mapping surveys (2013–2015) in six endemic regions (n = 9603). A multivariate logistic regression model was used to ascertain the contributing factors. A qualitative strand (2016–2017) was added by conducting five focus-group discussions (n = 50) and five in-depth interviews with migrant workers from less stable worksites in Shwegyin Township, Bago Region. The contiguous approach was used to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings. Results Among others, migrant workers from Bago Region were significantly more likely to report the duration of stay ≥ 12 months (63% vs. 49%) and high seasonal mobility (40% vs. 35%). Particularly in less stable settings, a very low proportion of migrant workers (17%) preferred to seek malaria treatment from the public sector and was significantly influenced by the worksite stability (adjusted OR = 1.4 and 2.3, respectively for categories 2 and 1); longer duration of stay (adjusted OR = 3.5); and adjusted OR < 2 for received malaria messages, knowledge of malaria symptoms and awareness of means of malaria diagnosis. Qualitative data further elucidated their preference for the informal healthcare sector, due to convenience, trust and good relations, and put migrant workers at risk of substandard care. Moreover, the availability of cheap anti-malarial in unregistered small groceries encouraged self-medication. Infrequent or no contact with rural health centres and voluntary health workers worsened the situation. Conclusions Mitigating key drivers that favour poor utilization of public-sector services among highly mobile migrant workers in less stable work-settings should be given priority in a malaria-elimination setting. These issues are challenging for the NMCP in Myanmar and might be generalized to other countries in the GMS to achieve malaria-elimination goals. Further innovative out-reach programmes designed and implemented specific to the nature of mobile/migrant workers is crucial. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-017-2113-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aung Ye Naung Win
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Epidemiology Research Division, Department of Medical Research, No. 5 Ziwaka Road, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Thae Maung Maung
- Medical Statistics Division, Department of Medical Research, No. 5 Ziwaka Road, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Khin Thet Wai
- Department of Medical Research, No. 5 Ziwaka Road, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Tin Oo
- Department of Medical Research, No. 5 Ziwaka Road, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Aung Thi
- National Malaria Control Programme, Department of Public Health, NayPyiTaw, Myanmar
| | - Rungrawee Tipmontree
- Bureau of Vector Borne Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Mondha Kengganpanich
- Department of Health Education and Behavior Sciences, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jaranit Kaewkungwal
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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