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Chen J, Davies A, Tran P, Gronau R, Rangan A, Allman-Farinelli M, Porykali S, Oge R, Porykali B. Health and Nutrition Promotion Programs in Papua New Guinea: A Scoping Review. Nutrients 2024; 16:1999. [PMID: 38999748 PMCID: PMC11243307 DOI: 10.3390/nu16131999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Papua New Guinea (PNG), adding to the disease burden from communicable infectious diseases and thus increasing the burden on the healthcare system in a low-resource setting. The aim of this review was to identify health and nutrition promotion programs conducted in PNG and the enablers and barriers to these programs. Four electronic databases and grey literature were searched. Two reviewers completed screening and data extraction. This review included 23 papers evaluating 22 health and nutrition promotion programs, which focused on the Ottawa Charter action areas of developing personal skills (12 programs), reorienting health services (12 programs) and strengthening community action (6 programs). Nineteen programs targeted communicable diseases; two addressed NCDs, and one addressed health services. Enablers of health promotion programs in PNG included community involvement, cultural appropriateness, strong leadership, and the use of mobile health technologies for the decentralisation of health services. Barriers included limited resources and funding and a lack of central leadership to drive ongoing implementation. There is an urgent need for health and nutrition promotion programs targeting NCDs and their modifiable risk factors, as well as longitudinal study designs for the evaluation of long-term impact and program sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Chen
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Alyse Davies
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Phyllis Tran
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ryley Gronau
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Anna Rangan
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Margaret Allman-Farinelli
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Shelina Porykali
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Robin Oge
- National Capital District Provincial Health Authority, Port Moresby 121, Papua New Guinea
| | - Bobby Porykali
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Program, George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Herawati MH, Besral, Lolong DB, Pracoyo NE, Sukoco NEW, Supratikta H, Veruswati M, Asyary A. Service availability and readiness of malaria surveillance information systems implementation at primary health centers in Indonesia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284162. [PMID: 37104477 PMCID: PMC10138467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most important indicators in malaria eradication is the malaria surveillance information system (SISMAL) for recording and reporting medical cases. This paper aims to describe the availability and readiness of SISMALs at primary health centers (PHCs) in Indonesia. A cross-sectional survey was implemented in seven provinces for this study. The data was analyzed using bivariate, multivariate, and linear regression. The availability of the information system was measured by assessing the presence of the electronic malaria surveillance information system (E-SISMAL) at the studied PHCs. The readiness was measured by averaging each component of the assessment. From 400 PHC samples, only 58.5% had available SISMALs, and their level of readiness was only 50.2%. Three components had very low levels of readiness: (1) the availability of personnel (40.9%), (2) SISMAL integration and storage (50.2%), and (3) the availability of data sources and indicators (56.8%). Remote and border (DTPK) areas had a 4% better readiness score than non-DTPK areas. Endemic areas were 1.4% better than elimination areas, while regions with low financial capacity were 3.78% better than regions with high financial capacity, with moderate capacity (2.91%). The availability rate of the SISMAL at PHCs is only 58.5%. Many PHCs still do not have SISMALs. The readiness of the SISMAL at these PHCs is significantly related to DTPK/remote area, high endemicity status, and low financial capacity. This study found that the implementation of SISMAL is more accessible to malaria surveillance for the remote area and regions with low financial capacity. Therefore, this effort will well-fit to address barrier to malaria surveillance in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Besral
- Department of Biostatistics and Population Studies, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | | | | | | | - Hadi Supratikta
- National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Study Program of Management Studies, Postgraduate School, Universitas Pamulang, South Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia
| | - Meita Veruswati
- Study Program of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. HAMKA, Jakarta, Indonesia
- PhD in Business and Management, Postgraduate School, Management and Science University, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Al Asyary
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
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Seidahmed O, Jamea S, Kurumop S, Timbi D, Makita L, Ahmed M, Freeman T, Pomat W, Hetzel MW. Stratification of malaria incidence in Papua New Guinea (2011-2019): Contribution towards a sub-national control policy. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000747. [PMID: 36962582 PMCID: PMC10022348 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria risk in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is highly heterogeneous, between and within geographical regions, which is operationally challenging for control. To enhance targeting of malaria interventions in PNG, we investigated risk factors and stratified malaria incidence at the level of health facility catchment areas. Catchment areas and populations of 808 health facilities were delineated using a travel-time accessibility approach and linked to reported malaria cases (2011-2019). Zonal statistics tools were used to calculate average altitude and air temperature in catchment areas before they were spatially joined with incidence rates. In addition, empirical Bayesian kriging (EBK) was employed to interpolate incidence risk strata across PNG. Malaria annual incidence rates are, on average, 186.3 per 1000 population in catchment areas up to 600 m, dropped to 98.8 at (800-1400) m, and to 24.1 cases above 1400 m altitude. In areas above the two altitudinal thresholds 600m and 1400m, the average annual temperature drops below 22°C and 17°C, respectively. EBK models show very low- to low-risk strata (<100 cases per 1000) in the Highlands, National Capital District and Bougainville. In contrast, patches of high-risk (>200 per 1000) strata are modelled mainly in Momase and Islands Regions. Besides, strata with moderate risk (100-200) predominate throughout the coastal areas. While 35.7% of the PNG population (estimated 3.33 million in 2019) lives in places at high or moderate risk of malaria, 52.2% (estimated 4.88 million) resides in very low-risk areas. In five provinces, relatively large proportions of populations (> 50%) inhabit high-risk areas: New Ireland, East and West New Britain, Sandaun and Milne Bay. Incidence maps show a contrast in malaria risk between coastal and inland areas influenced by altitude. However, the risk is highly variable in low-lying areas. Malaria interventions should be guided by sub-national risk levels in PNG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Seidahmed
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Papua New Guinea
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sharon Jamea
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Papua New Guinea
| | - Serah Kurumop
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Papua New Guinea
| | - Diana Timbi
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Papua New Guinea
| | - Leo Makita
- National Department of Health, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Munir Ahmed
- Rotarians Against Malaria, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Tim Freeman
- Rotarians Against Malaria, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - William Pomat
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Papua New Guinea
| | - Manuel W Hetzel
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Jo Y, Barthel N, Stierman E, Clifton K, Pak ES, Ezeiru S, Ekweremadu D, Onugu N, Ali Z, Egwu E, Akoh O, Uzunyayla O, Van Hulle S. The Potential of Digital Data Collection Tools for Long-lasting Insecticide-Treated Net Mass Campaigns in Nigeria: Formative Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e23648. [PMID: 34623310 PMCID: PMC8538022 DOI: 10.2196/23648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nigeria has the world’s largest malaria burden, accounting for 27% of the world’s malaria cases and 23% of malaria mortality globally. This formative study describes the operational process of the mass distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) during a campaign program in Nigeria. Objective This study aims to assess whether and how digital data collection and management tools can change current practices and help resolve major implementation issues. Methods Qualitative data on the technical features and operational processes of paper-based and information and communication technology (ICT)–based systems in the Edo and Kwara states from June 2 to 30, 2017, were collected on the basis of documented operation manuals, field observations, and informant interviews. During the LLIN campaign in Edo State, we recruited 6 local government area focal persons and monitors and documented daily review meetings during household mobilization (9 days) and net distribution (5 days) to understand the major program implementation issues associated with the following three aspects: logistic issues, technical issues, and demand creation. Each issue was categorized according to the expected degree (low, mid, and high) of change by the ICT system. Results The net campaign started with microplanning and training, followed by a month-long implementation process, which included household mobilization, net movement, net distribution, and end process monitoring. The ICT system can improve management and oversight issues related to data reporting and processes through user-centered interface design, built-in data quality control logic flow or algorithms, and workflow automation. These often require more than 50% of staff time and effort in the current paper-based practice. Compared with the current paper-based system, the real-time system is expected to reduce the time to payment compensation for health workers by about 20 days and produce summary campaign statistics for at least 20 to 30 days. Conclusions The ICT system can facilitate the measurement of population coverage beyond program coverage during an LLIN campaign with greater data reliability and timeliness, which are often compromised due to the limited workforce capacity in a paper-based system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngji Jo
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Esther Semee Pak
- Graduate Institute of International Development Studies, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Zainab Ali
- Catholic Relief Services, Abuja, Nigeria
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Tizifa TA, Nkhono W, Mtengula S, van Vugt M, Munn Z, Kabaghe AN. Leveraging phone-based mobile technology to improve data quality at health facilities in rural Malawi: a best practice project. Malar J 2021; 20:203. [PMID: 33906650 PMCID: PMC8077781 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03742-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To further reduce malaria burden, identification of areas with highest burden for targeted interventions needs to occur. Routine health information has the potential to indicate where and when clinical malaria occurs the most. Developing countries mostly use paper-based data systems however they are error-prone as they require manual aggregation, tallying and transferring of data. Piloting was done using electronic data capture (EDC) with a cheap and user friendly software in rural Malawian primary healthcare setting to improve the quality of health records. METHODS Audit and feedback tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute (Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System and Getting Research into Practice) were used in four primary healthcare facilities. Using this approach, the best available evidence for a malaria information system (MIS) was identified. Baseline audit of the existing MIS was conducted in the facilities based on available best practice for MIS; this included ensuring data consistency and completeness in MIS by sampling 25 random records of malaria positive cases. Implementation of an adapted evidence-based EDC system using tablets on an OpenDataKit platform was done. An end line audit following implementation was then conducted. Users had interviews on experiences and challenges concerning EDC at the beginning and end of the survey. RESULTS The existing MIS was paper-based, occupied huge storage space, had some data losses due to torn out papers and were illegible in some facilities. The existing MIS did not have documentation of necessary parameters, such as malaria deaths and treatment within 14 days. Training manuals and modules were absent. One health centre solely had data completeness and consistency at 100% of the malaria-positive sampled records. Data completeness and consistency rose to 100% with readily available records containing information on recent malaria treatment. Interview findings at the end of the survey showed that EDC was acceptable among users and they agreed that the tablets and the OpenDataKit were easy to use, improved productivity and quality of care. CONCLUSIONS Improvement of data quality and use in the Malawian rural facilities was achieved through the introduction of EDC using OpenDataKit. Health workers in the facilities showed satisfaction with the use of EDC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinashe A. Tizifa
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - William Nkhono
- Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Spencer Mtengula
- Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Michele van Vugt
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Zachary Munn
- JBI, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Alinune N. Kabaghe
- Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
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Rosewell A, Shearman P, Ramamurthy S, Akers R. Transforming the health information system using mobile and geographic information technologies, Papua New Guinea. Bull World Health Organ 2021; 99:381-387A. [PMID: 33958826 PMCID: PMC8061671 DOI: 10.2471/blt.20.267823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of declining economic growth, now exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, Papua New Guinea is increasing the efficiency of its health systems to overcome difficulties in reaching global health and development targets. Before 2015, the national health information system was fragmented, underfunded, of limited utility and accessed infrequently by health authorities. We built an electronic system that integrated mobile technologies and geographic information system data sets of every house, village and health facility in the country. We piloted the system in 184 health facilities across five provinces between 2015 and 2016. By the end of 2020, the system’s mobile tablets were rolled out to 473 facilities in 13 provinces, while the online platform was available in health authorities of all 22 provinces, including church health services. Fractured data siloes of legacy health programmes have been integrated and a platform for civil registration systems established. We discuss how mobile technologies and geographic information systems have transformed health information systems in Papua New Guinea over the past 6 years by increasing the timeliness, completeness, quality, accessibility, flexibility, acceptability and utility of national health data. To achieve this transformation, we highlight the importance of considering the benefits of mobile tools and using rich geographic information systems data sets for health workers in primary care in addition to the needs of public health authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Rosewell
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Phil Shearman
- Papua New Guinea Remote Sensing Centre, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Sundar Ramamurthy
- Papua New Guinea Remote Sensing Centre, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Rob Akers
- Asian Development Bank, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
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Nasir SMI, Amarasekara S, Wickremasinghe R, Fernando D, Udagama P. Prevention of re-establishment of malaria: historical perspective and future prospects. Malar J 2020; 19:452. [PMID: 33287809 PMCID: PMC7720033 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03527-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prevention of re-establishment (POR) refers to the prevention of malaria outbreak/epidemic occurrence or preventing re-establishment of indigenous malaria in a malaria-free country. Understanding the effectiveness of the various strategies used for POR is, therefore, of vital importance to countries certified as "malaria-free" or to the countries to be thus certified in the near future. This review is based on extensive review of literature on both the POR strategies and elimination schemes of countries, (i) that have reached malaria-free status (e.g. Armenia, Mauritius, Sri Lanka), (ii) those that are reaching pre-elimination stage (e.g. South Korea), and (iii) countries at the control phase (e.g. India). History has clearly shown that poorly implemented POR programmes can result in deadly consequences (e.g. Sri Lanka); conversely, there are examples of robust POR programmes that have sustained malaria free status that can serve as examples to countries working toward elimination. Countries awaiting malaria elimination status should pre-plan their POR strategies. Malaria-free countries face the risk of resurgence mostly due to imported malaria cases; thus, a robust passenger screening programme and cross border collaborations are crucial in a POR setting. In addition, sustained vigilance, and continued funding for the national anti-malarial campaign programme and for related research is of vital importance for POR. With distinct intrinsic potential for malaria in each country, tailor-made POR programmes are built through continuous and robust epidemiological and entomological surveillance, particularly in countries such as Sri Lanka with increased receptivity and vulnerability for malaria transmission. In summary, across all five countries under scrutiny, common strengths of the POR programmes are (i) a multipronged approach, (ii) strong passive, active, and activated passive case detection, (iii) Indoor residual spraying (IRS), and (iv) health education/awareness programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Ibraheem Nasir
- Department of Zoology & Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka
| | - Sachini Amarasekara
- Department of Zoology & Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka
| | - Renu Wickremasinghe
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
| | - Deepika Fernando
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo 8, Sri Lanka
| | - Preethi Udagama
- Department of Zoology & Environment Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka.
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Carmone AE, Kalaris K, Leydon N, Sirivansanti N, Smith JM, Storey A, Malata A. Developing a Common Understanding of Networks of Care through a Scoping Study. Health Syst Reform 2020; 6:e1810921. [PMID: 33021881 DOI: 10.1080/23288604.2020.1810921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The phrase "Networks of Care" seems familiar but remains poorly defined. A health system that exemplifies effective Networks of Care (NOC) purposefully and effectively interconnects service delivery touch points within a catchment area to fill critical service gaps and create continuity in patient care. To more fully elaborate the concept of Networks of Care, we conducted a multi-method scoping study that included a literature review, stakeholder interviews, and descriptive case studies from five low- and middle-income countries. Our extended definition of a Network of Care features four overlapping and interdependent domains of activity at multiple levels of health systems, characterized by: 1) Agreement and Enabling Environment, 2) Operational Standards, 3) Quality, Efficiency and Responsibility, and 4) Learning and Adaptation. There are a series of key interrelated themes within each domain. Creating a common understanding of what characterizes and fosters an effective Network of Care can drive the evolution and strengthening of national health programs, especially those incorporating universal health coverage and promoting comprehensive care and integrated services. An understanding of the Networks of Care model can help guide efforts to move health service delivery toward goals that can benefit a diversity of stakeholders, including a variety of health system actors, such as health care workers, users of health systems, and the wider community at large. It can also contribute to improving poor health outcomes and reducing waste originating from fragmented services and lack of access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy E Carmone
- Clinical Sciences, Clinton Health Access Initiative , Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine Kalaris
- Maternal and Neonatal Health, Clinton Health Access Initiative , Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nicholas Leydon
- Global Delivery Programs, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nicole Sirivansanti
- Maternal, Newborn & Child Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Smith
- Maternal, Newborn & Child Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andrew Storey
- Maternal and Neonatal Health, Clinton Health Access Initiative , Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Address Malata
- Office of the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, Malawi University of Science and Technology , Limbe, Malawi
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Potential for a web-based management information system to improve malaria control: An exploratory study in the Lahat District, South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229838. [PMID: 32516344 PMCID: PMC7282623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A web-based malaria reporting information system (MRIS) has the potential to improve malaria reporting and management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the existing manual paper-based MRIS and to provide a way to overcome the obstacles by developing a web-based MRIS in Indonesia. Methods An exploratory study was conducted in 2012 in Lahat District, South Sumatra Province of Indonesia. We evaluated the current reporting system and identified the potential benefits of using a web-based MRIS by in-depth interviews on selected key informants. Feasibility study was then conducted to develop a prototype system. A web-based MRIS was developed, integrated and synchronized, with suitability ranging from Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) to the Lahat District Health Office. Results The paper-based reporting system was sub-optimal due to a lack of transportation, communication, and human capacity. We developed a web-based MRIS to replace the current one. Although the web-based system has the potential to improve the malaria reporting information system, there were some barriers to its implementation, including lack of skilled operators, computer availability and lack of internet access. Recommended ways to overcome the obstacles are by training operators, making the application in an offline mode and able to be operated by mobile phone text messaging for malaria reporting. Conclusion The web-based MRIS has the potential to be implemented as an enhanced malaria reporting information system and investment in the system to support timely management responses is essential for malaria elimination. The developed application can be cloned to other areas that have similar characteristics and MRIS with a built-in web base to aid its application in the 5G future.
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A Review of Mobile Health Applications in Epidemic and Pandemic Outbreaks: Lessons Learned for COVID-19. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.103649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Context: Using smart mobile devices, called mobile health (mHealth), facilitates providing health services, speeds up the process, and reduces the costs and complications of direct services. Also, mHealth has many capabilities and applications in epidemic and pandemic outbreaks. This study aimed to identify mHealth applications in epidemic/pandemic outbreaks and provide some suggestions for tackling COVID-19. Methods: To find the relevant studies, searches were done in PubMed and Scopus by related keywords during 2014 - 2020 (March 10). After selecting the studies based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, data were collected by a data-gathering form. Results: Of the 727 retrieved studies, 17 studies were included. All studies emphasized the positive effect of mHealth for use in epidemic/pandemic outbreaks. The main applications of mHealth for epidemic/pandemic outbreaks included public health aspects, data management, educational programs, diagnosis, and treatment. Conclusions: mHealth is an appropriate method for encountering epidemic/pandemic outbreaks due to its extensive applications. In the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19, mHealth is one of the best choices to use in the patient-physician relationship as tele-visits, using in fever coach, providing real-time information for healthcare providers, population monitoring, and detecting the disease based on obtained data from different locations.
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Jeanne I, Chambers LE, Kazazic A, Russell TL, Bobogare A, Bugoro H, Otto F, Fafale G, Amjadali A. Mapping a Plasmodium transmission spatial suitability index in Solomon Islands: a malaria monitoring and control tool. Malar J 2018; 17:381. [PMID: 30348161 PMCID: PMC6198373 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2521-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria remains a challenge in Solomon Islands, despite government efforts to implement a coordinated control programme. This programme resulted in a dramatic decrease in the number of cases and mortality however, malaria incidence remains high in the three most populated provinces. Anopheles farauti is the primary malaria vector and a better understanding of the spatial patterns parasite transmission is required in order to implement effective control measures. Previous entomological studies provide information on the ecological preferences of An. farauti but this information has never before been gathered and "translated" in useful tools as maps that provide information at both the national level and at the scale of villages, thus enabling local targeted control measures. METHODS A literature review and consultation with entomology experts were used to determine and select environmental preferences of An. farauti. Remote sensing images were processed to translate these preferences into geolocated information to allow them to be used as the basis for a Transmission Suitability Index (TSI). Validation was developed from independent previous entomological studies with georeferenced locations of An. farauti. Then, TSI was autoscaled to ten classes for mapping. RESULTS Key environmental preferences for the An. farauti were: distance to coastline, elevation, and availability of water sources. Based on these variables, a model was developed to provide a TSI. This TSI was developed using GIS and remote sensing image processing, resulting in maps and GIS raster layer for all the eight provinces and Honiara City at a 250 m spatial resolution. For a TSI ranging from 0 as not suitable to 13 as most suitable, all the previous collections of An. farauti had mean TSI value between 9 and 11 and were significantly higher than where the vector was searched for and absent. Resulting maps were provided after autoscaling the TSI into ten classes from 0 to 9 for visual clarity. CONCLUSIONS The TSI model developed here provides useful predictions of likely malaria transmission larval sources based on the environmental preferences of the mosquito, An. farauti. These predictions can provide sufficient lead-time for agencies to target malaria prevention and control measures and can assist with effective deployment of limited resources. As the model is built on the known environmental preferences of An. farauti, the model should be completed and updated as soon as new information is available. Because the model did not include any other malaria transmission factors such as care availability, diagnostic time, treatment, prevention, and entomological parameters other than the ecological preferences neither, our suitability mapping represents the upper bound of transmission areas. The results of this study can now being used as the basis of a malaria monitoring system which has been jointly implemented by the Solomon Islands National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. The TSI model development method can be applied to other regions of the world where this mosquito occurs and could be adapted for other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Jeanne
- Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | | | - Adna Kazazic
- Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tanya L Russell
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Albino Bobogare
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Hugo Bugoro
- Research Department, Solomon Islands National University, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Francis Otto
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - George Fafale
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Honiara, Solomon Islands
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Craig AT, Joshua CA, Sio AR, Lauri M, Kaldor J, Rosewell AE, Schierhout G. Towards effective outbreak detection: a qualitative study to identify factors affecting nurses' early warning surveillance practice in Solomon Islands. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:702. [PMID: 30200946 PMCID: PMC6131946 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intelligence generated by a surveillance system is dependent on the quality of data that are collected. We investigated the knowledge, attitudes and practices of nurses responsible for outbreak early warning surveillance data collection in Solomon Islands to identify factors that influence their ability to perform surveillance-related tasks with rigour. Methods We interviewed 12 purposively selected surveillance nurses and conducted inductive analysis on resulting data. Results Interviewees were knowledgeable and willing to contribute to the surveillance system. Constraining factors included the perception that surveillance was less important than patient care and could be ‘deferred’ during busy periods and wide variability in the application of case definitions. Motivating factors were frequent in-clinic training, formal recognition for good performance, incentives and designation of a focal point. Nurses held mixed views about the effect of mobile technologies on surveillance practice. Conclusions This study identified several challenges to consistent and accurate data collection and reporting. Engagement of different parts of the health system, including human resources and health facilities’ management, is needed to address these challenges. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-018-3508-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam T Craig
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Cynthia A Joshua
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, PO Box 349, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Alison R Sio
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, PO Box 349, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Michael Lauri
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, PO Box 349, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - John Kaldor
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Alexander E Rosewell
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Gill Schierhout
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
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White MT, Walker P, Karl S, Hetzel MW, Freeman T, Waltmann A, Laman M, Robinson LJ, Ghani A, Mueller I. Mathematical modelling of the impact of expanding levels of malaria control interventions on Plasmodium vivax. Nat Commun 2018; 9:3300. [PMID: 30120250 PMCID: PMC6097992 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05860-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax poses unique challenges for malaria control and elimination, notably the potential for relapses to maintain transmission in the face of drug-based treatment and vector control strategies. We developed an individual-based mathematical model of P. vivax transmission calibrated to epidemiological data from Papua New Guinea (PNG). In many settings in PNG, increasing bed net coverage is predicted to reduce transmission to less than 0.1% prevalence by light microscopy, however there is substantial risk of rebounds in transmission if interventions are removed prematurely. In several high transmission settings, model simulations predict that combinations of existing interventions are not sufficient to interrupt P. vivax transmission. This analysis highlights the potential options for the future of P. vivax control: maintaining existing public health gains by keeping transmission suppressed through indefinite distribution of interventions; or continued development of strategies based on existing and new interventions to push for further reduction and towards elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T White
- Malaria: Parasites and Hosts, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015, Paris, France.
| | - Patrick Walker
- MRC Centre for Outbreak Analysis and Modelling, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, Norfolk Place, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Stephan Karl
- Vector-borne Diseases Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang 511, Papua New Guinea
- Division of Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Manuel W Hetzel
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4051, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4001, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tim Freeman
- Rotarians Against Malaria, Port Moresby 121, Papua New Guinea
| | - Andreea Waltmann
- Division of Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Moses Laman
- Vector-borne Diseases Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang 511, Papua New Guinea
| | - Leanne J Robinson
- Vector-borne Diseases Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang 511, Papua New Guinea
- Division of Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Azra Ghani
- MRC Centre for Outbreak Analysis and Modelling, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, Norfolk Place, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Ivo Mueller
- Malaria: Parasites and Hosts, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015, Paris, France
- Division of Population Health and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
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14
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Willie N, Zimmerman PA, Mehlotra RK. Plasmodium falciparum Histidine-Rich Protein 2 Gene Variation in a Malaria-Endemic Area of Papua New Guinea. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2018; 99:697-703. [PMID: 29968556 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Histidine-rich protein 2 of Plasmodium falciparum (PfHRP2) forms the basis of many current malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). It is concerning that there are parasites that lack part or all of the pfhrp2 gene, and thus do not express the PfHRP2 protein; such parasites are not identifiable by PfHRP2-detecting RDTs. Very limited information is available regarding pfhrp2 genetic variation in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In the present study, this gene variation was evaluated using 169 samples previously collected from the Wosera area in East Sepik Province of PNG. Molecular diagnosis of these samples showed that 81% were infected, and P. falciparum was present in 91% of those infected samples. One hundred and twenty samples were amplified for pfhrp2 exon-2, from which 12 randomly selected amplicons were sequenced, yielding 18 sequences, all of which were unique. Baker repeat type 2 × type 7 numbers ranged from 0 to 108. Epitope mapping analysis revealed that three major epitopes, DAHHAHHA, AHHAADAHHA, and AHHAADAHH, were present in high prevalence and frequencies. These major epitopes have been shown to be recognized by the monoclonal antibodies 3A4 and PTL-3 (DAHHAHHA), C1-13 (AHHAADAHHA), and S2-5 and C2-3 (AHHAADAHH). This study provides further information on the high genetic variation of pfhrp2 and its unclear relationship with prediction of RDT detection sensitivity, and identifies major epitopes in this gene from PNG. These results could be relevant and useful to understand the genetic diversity of this gene and the performance of current and future RDTs in this malarious region of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigani Willie
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Peter A Zimmerman
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Rajeev K Mehlotra
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
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Craig AT, Joshua CA, Sio AR, Teobasi B, Dofai A, Dalipanda T, Hardie K, Kaldor J, Kolbe A. Enhanced surveillance during a public health emergency in a resource-limited setting: Experience from a large dengue outbreak in Solomon Islands, 2016-17. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198487. [PMID: 29879179 PMCID: PMC5991673 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Between August-2016 and April-2017, Solomon Islands experienced the largest and longest-running dengue outbreak on record in the country, with 12,329 suspected cases, 877 hospitalisations and 16 deaths. We conducted a retrospective review of related data and documents, and conducted key informant interviews to characterise the event and investigate the adaptability of syndromic surveillance for enhanced and expanded data collection during a public health emergency in a low resource country setting. While the outbreak quickly consumed available public and clinical resources, we found that authorities were able to scale up the conventional national syndrome-based early warning surveillance system to support the increased information demands during the event demonstrating the flexibility of the system and syndromic surveillance more broadly. Challenges in scaling up included upskilling and assisting staff with no previous experience of the tasks required; managing large volumes of data; maintaining data quality for the duration of the outbreak; harmonising routine and enhanced surveillance data and maintaining surveillance for other diseases; producing information optimally useful for response planning; and managing staff fatigue. Solomon Islands, along with other countries of the region remains vulnerable to outbreaks of dengue and other communicable diseases. Ensuring surveillance systems are robust and able to adapt to changing demands during emergencies should be a health protection priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam T. Craig
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cynthia A. Joshua
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Alison R. Sio
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Bobby Teobasi
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Alfred Dofai
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Tenneth Dalipanda
- Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Kate Hardie
- Division of Pacific Technical Support, World Health Organization, Suva, Fiji
| | - John Kaldor
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Kolbe
- Division of Pacific Technical Support, World Health Organization, Suva, Fiji
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