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Paudel AK, Chhetri MR, Pandey NR, Panta PP. Unveiling the significance of women's role in health-seeking behavior during suspected malaria fever in risk populations of Nepal: Mixed methods cross-sectional study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003697. [PMID: 39231131 PMCID: PMC11373845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Malaria remains a substantial global health challenge, causing preventable illnesses and fatalities. In Nepal, the government has ambitiously targeted achieving malaria-free status by 2025. This study aims to assess the impact of women's roles on health-seeking behavior during suspected malaria fever in the high-risk area of Kanchanpur district, Nepal. This is a cross-sectional analytical design with a mixed-method approach, the research focused on Kanchanpur district, selected from 20 high-risk malaria districts of Nepal. Belauri Municipality within Kanchanpur, identified for its concentration of high and moderate-risk wards, was the specific study area. A random selection process identified 387 households for a comprehensive survey. Face-to-face interviews with household heads were conducted after obtaining written informed consent and ethical approval from the Nepal Health Research Council (March 3, 2023/Ref no.-2041). Data analysis, employing statistical measures such as percentages, frequency, mean, and the Chi-square test, was performed using SPSS version 20. Cultural beliefs regarding women's use of bed nets during menstruation significantly predicted health-seeking behavior (p-value < 0.05). Those endorsing bed net use during menstruation were nearly twice as likely to choose modern health facilities (COR = 1.975, 95% C.I. = 1.134 to 3.439, p = 0.016). Women's involvement in malaria treatment decisions strongly correlated with health-seeking behavior (p-value = 0.001). However, women participating in household decisions for suspected malaria treatment were less likely to choose modern health facilities (COR = 0.327, 95% CI = 0.171-0.627, p = 0.001) compared to those without such a role. The study underscores the complex influence of cultural beliefs and women's decision-making roles on health-seeking behavior. Recognizing and comprehending these factors are vital for crafting effective malaria interventions that align with cultural contexts and consider the nuanced roles of women in health-related decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Kumar Paudel
- Department of Research and Development, National Open College, Pokhara University, Lekhnath, Nepal
| | - Muni Raj Chhetri
- Department of Public Health, National Open College, Pokhara University, Lekhnath, Nepal
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Dako-Gyeke P, Asampong E, Glozah FN, Hornuvo R, Tabong PTN, Gittelman D, Nwameme A, Oteng B, Peprah NY, Chandi GM, Adongo PB. Assessing LLIN distribution implementation using evidence-informed intervention core elements: a qualitative study in a resource-constrained setting. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:790. [PMID: 38982325 PMCID: PMC11234562 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11223-5] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Malaria Elimination Programme implements the mass LLIN Distribution Campaigns in Ghana. Implementation science promotes the systematic study of social contexts, individual experiences, real-world environments, partnerships, and stakeholder consultations regarding the implementation of evidence-informed interventions. In this paper, we assess the core elements of the mass LLIN distribution campaign in a resource constrained setting to learn best implementation practices. Three core domains were assessed through the application of Galbraith's taxonomy (i.e., implementation, content, and pedagogy) for evidence-informed intervention implementation. METHODS Six districts in two regions (Eastern and Volta) in Ghana participated in this study. Fourteen Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted across these communities. Eligible participants were purposively sampled considering age, occupation, gender, and care giving for children under 5 years and household head roles. All audio-recorded FGDs were transcribed verbatim, data was assessed and coded through deductive and inductive processes. NVivo software version 13 was used for the coding process. Themes were refined, legitimized, and the most compelling extracts selected to produce the results. RESULTS Sixty-nine (69) caregivers of children under 5 years and sixty (60) household heads participated in the FGDs. All caregivers were females (69), whilst household heads included more males (41). Core elements identified under implementation domain of the LLIN distribution campaign in Ghana include the registration and distribution processes, preceded by engagement with traditional authorities and continuous involvement of community health volunteers during implementation. For pedagogy domain, core elements include delivery of intervention through outreaches, illustrations, demonstrations, and the use of multiple communication channels. Core elements realized within the content domain include information on effective malaria prevention, and provision of information to enhance their self-efficacy. Yet, participants noted gaps (e.g., misuse) in the desired behavioural outcome of LLIN use and a heavy campaign focus on women. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Although the implementation of the mass LLIN distribution campaigns exhibit components of core elements of evidence informed interventions (implementation, content and pedagogy), it has not achieved its desired behavioural change intentions (i.e. continuous LLIN use). Future campaigns may consider use of continuous innovative pedagogical approaches at the community level and lessons learnt from this study to strengthen the implementation process of evidence-based health interventions. There is also the need for standardization of core elements to identify the number of core elements required within each domain to achieve efficacy. ETHICAL APPROVAL Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ghana Health Service Ethics Review Committee (GHS-ERC: 002/06/21) before the commencement of all data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis Dako-Gyeke
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Asampong
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Franklin N Glozah
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ruby Hornuvo
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Philip Teg-Nefaah Tabong
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - David Gittelman
- Advisor, Health Campaign Effectiveness Coalition, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Adanna Nwameme
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Gloria M Chandi
- Ghana Health Service, Ga North Municipal Health Directorate, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Philip B Adongo
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Ladu HI, Shuaibu U, Pulford J. Reasons for mosquito net non-use in malaria-endemic countries: A review of qualitative research published between 2011 and 2021. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:647-656. [PMID: 38796689 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.14006] [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] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Mosquito nets, particularly insecticide-treated nets, are the most recommended method of malaria control in endemic countries. However, individuals do not always have access to insecticide-treated nets or use them as recommended. The current paper expands on a previous review published in 2011 which highlighted a need for more qualitative research on the reasons for mosquito net non-use. We present a systematic review of qualitative research published in the past decade to assess the growth and quality of qualitative papers about net non-use and examine and update the current understanding. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Global Health, in addition to a citation search of the initial review. Relevant papers were screened and discussed. The critical appraisal assessment tool was used to ensure quality. Thematic synthesis was used to extract, synthesise, and analyse study findings. Compared with the initial review, the results showed a 10-fold increase in qualitative research on the reasons for mosquito net non-use between 2011 and 2021. In addition, the quality of the research has improved, with more than 90% of the papers receiving high scores, using the critical appraisal assessment tool. The reported reasons for non-use were categorised into four themes: human factors, net factors, housing structure, and net access. More than two thirds of the studies (25/39) were led by authors affiliated with institutions in malaria-endemic countries. Despite the distribution of free mosquito nets in malaria-endemic countries, earlier reported challenges remain pertinent. The most common reasons for net non-use across all regions of Malaria endemic countries pertained to human- and net-related factors. The research focus should shift towards intervention studies to address these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadiza Isa Ladu
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | | | - Justin Pulford
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Shannon J, Kagone M, Candrinho B, Otikwu S, Ingabire C, Gansane A, Pooda S, Aboubacar F, Ouattara F, Savaio B, Joanguete C, Sixpence L, Koenker H, Uhomoibhi P, Okoko OO, Ali O, Babarinde D, Ogundairo J, Lemah AS, Mbituyumuremyi A, Singirankabo JH, Kawakyu N, Guglielmo F, Fornadel C, Arnett K, Wagman J, Gogue C, Tynuv K, Digre P, Mwesigwa J, Robertson M. A qualitative look at bed net access and use in Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Rwanda following piloted distributions of dual-active ingredient insecticide-treated nets. Malar J 2024; 23:137. [PMID: 38715035 PMCID: PMC11077758 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04868-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Universal coverage with insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) is important for malaria control and elimination. The emergence and intensification of insecticide resistance threatens progress made through the deployment of these interventions and has required the development of newer, more expensive ITN types. Understanding malaria prevention behaviour, including barriers and facilitators to net access and use, can support effective decision-making for the promotion and distribution of ITNs. METHODS In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted in 3 to 4 villages per district, in 13 districts across Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nigeria and Rwanda from 2019 to 2022. Interviews were conducted in the local language, translated and transcribed in English, French or Portuguese. Transcripts were coded and analysed using Nvivo and ATLAS.ti. RESULTS ITNs were obtained from mass distribution campaigns, antenatal care and immunization visits, and purchased on the private market in some locations. While there were divergent perspectives in whether the number of distributed nets were adequate, participants consistently expressed concerns of bias, discrimination, and a lack of transparency with the distribution process. ITNs were frequently used alongside other malaria prevention methods. The primary motivation for use was malaria prevention. While some participants reported using nets nightly throughout the year, other participants reported seasonal use, both due to the perceived higher density of mosquitoes and discomfort of sleeping under a net in the increased heat. Other barriers to consistent net use included activities that take place away from the home, sleeping patterns and arrangements, and sensitivity to the insecticides on the nets. CONCLUSIONS ITNs remain an important malaria control intervention. To ensure adequate and increased net access, distribution campaigns should consider family structures, available sleeping spaces, and other bed sharing preferences when identifying the number of nets needed for distribution. In addition, campaigns should allow for multiple options for net distribution points and timing to accommodate households remote to health services. Continuous distribution channels and complimentary distribution through the private sector could help fill gaps in coverage. Solutions are needed for outdoor malaria transmission, including alternative designs for ITNs, and improving access to complementary personal protective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Moubassira Kagone
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Baltazar Candrinho
- National Malaria Control Programme, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | | | - Adama Gansane
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Samy Pooda
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Fofana Aboubacar
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Fatou Ouattara
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | | | | | - Perpetua Uhomoibhi
- National Malaria Elimination Programme, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Okefu Oyale Okoko
- National Malaria Elimination Programme, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Onoja Ali
- Ibolda Health International, Abuja, Nigeria
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Glozah FN, Tabong PTN, Bazant E, Asampong E, Hornuvo R, Nwameme A, Peprah NY, Chandi GM, Adongo PB, Dako-Gyeke P. Implementation and effectiveness outcomes of Community Health Advocacy Teams to improve long-lasting insecticide net distribution and use in six districts in Ghana: A one-group pre-post-test study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002123. [PMID: 38557578 PMCID: PMC10984411 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death especially among children and pregnant women in Ghana. Despite the efforts made by the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), including distribution of Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) to households through periodic Point Mass Distribution (PMD) campaigns and continuous channels (antenatal, schools and postnatal), there is a gap between access and use of LLINs in Ghana. An effective and functional community-based group that would seek to improve the effectiveness of LLIN distribution before, during, after PMD Campaigns and continuous distribution at the community level could help address this gap. This paper assesses the implementation outcomes and short-term effectiveness of the pilot implementation of co-created community health advocacy teams (CHAT) intervention in Ghanaian communities to plan and implement campaigns to increase LLIN use. The study employed a one-group pre-post study design and measured implementation outcomes (acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility) and effectiveness outcomes (LLIN awareness, LLIN access, willingness to purchase LLIN, and LLIN use) among 800 community households. The CHAT intervention was implemented for four months across six districts in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The data were downloaded directly from REDCap and analyzed statistically (descriptive and McNemar test of association) using SPSS 22 software. After the implementation period, the majority of respondents in all six districts indicated that the CHAT intervention was acceptable (89.8%), appropriate (89.5%), and feasible (90%). Also, there was a significant association between baseline and end-line assessment on all four effectiveness outcome measures. Household members' awareness of, access to, willingness to purchase, and use of LLINs increased significantly over the four-month period that the CHAT intervention was implemented. The study concludes that CHAT is an acceptable, appropriate, and feasible intervention for supporting the National Malaria Programme in LLIN PMD and for engaging in Social and Behaviour Change Communication activities through the continuous channels of distribution. Additionally, the CHAT demonstrates short-term effectiveness outcomes in terms of creating LLIN awareness, providing access to LLIN, and encouraging Ghanaian community members to be willing to purchase and use LLINs. Although the activities of CHAT members were largely voluntary, integration into the existing primary health care system will make it sustainable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franklin N. Glozah
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Philip Teg-Nefaah Tabong
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eva Bazant
- Health Campaign Effectiveness Coalition, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Emmanuel Asampong
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ruby Hornuvo
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adanna Nwameme
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Gloria M. Chandi
- Ghana Health Service, Ga North Municipal Health Directorate, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Philip Baba Adongo
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Dako-Gyeke
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Nhangave AV, Munyangaju I, Osório D, Nacarapa E, Ndima S, Moiane A, Chiposse I, Muchanga I, Saifodine A. Factors associated with the use of long-lasting insecticidal nets in pregnant women and mothers with children under five years of age in Gaza province, Mozambique. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002811. [PMID: 38227566 PMCID: PMC10790986 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Malaria remains a major public health concern worldwide. Malaria is endemic in Mozambique, with seasonal fluctuations throughout the country. Although the number of malaria cases in Mozambique have dropped by 11% from 2020 to 2021, there are still hotspots in the country with persistent high incidence and low insecticide-treated bed net usage. The aim of this study is to evaluate the factors associated with the use of long-lasting insecticidal nets by pregnant women and women with children under 5 years old in two hotspot districts in the Gaza province, Mozambique. A descriptive, qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted between June 15th and 21st 2022. An in-depth interview process was conducted with pregnant women and mothers with children under five years old, exploring their beliefs, experiences, and perception of messages conveyed by health professionals when long-lasting insecticidal nets were being supplied. A total of 48 women participated (24 pregnant women and 24 women with children under 5 years). Most participants recognized the protective effects of long-lasting insecticidal nets in preventing malaria, and understood that women and children were high risk groups. The nets were reported to cause side effects and difficulty breathing by 100% of pregnant women, while 54.2% of mothers with children under 5 reported no side effects. The majority of women in both groups reported that their health professionals did not educate them about how to use or handle the nets properly. Only 16.7% of mothers with children under 5 received correct handling instructions. Providing clear, culturally sensitive, and practical information on the correct use of LLINs, as well as regular monitoring of their proper use, would be a great step forward for Mozambique's national malaria program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amancio Vicente Nhangave
- Gaza Provincial Research Nucleus, Provincial Health Directorate, Xai-Xai, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Isabelle Munyangaju
- Tinpswalo Association, Vincentian Association to Fight AIDS and TB, Gaza Province, Mozambique
| | - Dulce Osório
- Tinpswalo Association, Vincentian Association to Fight AIDS and TB, Gaza Province, Mozambique
| | - Edy Nacarapa
- Tinpswalo Association, Vincentian Association to Fight AIDS and TB, Gaza Province, Mozambique
| | - Sozinho Ndima
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Health, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Alfa Moiane
- National Malaria Control Programme, Gaza Provincial Health Directorate, Xai-Xai, Mozambique
| | - Ismail Chiposse
- Gaza Provincial Research Nucleus, Provincial Health Directorate, Xai-Xai, Mozambique
| | - Izaidino Muchanga
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Saint Thomas, Gaza Campus, Gaza, Mozambique
| | - Abuchahama Saifodine
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- National Malaria Control Programme, Gaza Provincial Health Directorate, Xai-Xai, Mozambique
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Ampofo GD, Ahiakpa AK, Osarfo J. Interventions for malaria prevention in pregnancy; factors influencing uptake and their effect on pregnancy outcomes among post-natal women in a tertiary facility in the Volta Region of Ghana. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121231199653. [PMID: 37719169 PMCID: PMC10503280 DOI: 10.1177/20503121231199653] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Malaria in pregnancy is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including maternal anaemia and low birthweight. Uptake of preventive interventions is sub-optimal in sub-Saharan Africa including Ghana. Understanding local-level factors that influence uptake of these interventions can enhance control. The study assessed uptake of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria during pregnancy using sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) and insecticide-treated net (ITN) use, their determinants and effects on pregnancy outcomes. Methods A cross-sectional study involving 349 post-partum women was conducted from 25 August 2022 to 9 October 2022 at the Ho Teaching Hospital. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on participant socio-demographics, ITN use, number of doses of sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine received, knowledge of malaria in pregnancy, haemoglobin levels and birth weight among others. Summary statistics were reported as frequencies, percentages and means. Associations between exposure and outcome variables were assessed using logistic regression methods and odds ratios reported with 95% confidence intervals. Statistical significance was concluded at p < 0.05. Results More than 80% (291) of respondents received ⩾3 doses of intermittent preventive treatment using sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine and 64.8% (226) slept under ITNs the night before the survey. Age >25 years, employment, good knowledge of malaria in pregnancy, parity ⩾2 and initiating antenatal care visits in the first trimester facilitated the uptake of these interventions. Receiving ⩾3 doses of sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine was associated with having normal-weight babies (adjusted odds ratio 2.80, 95% CI: 1.07, 7.34; p = 0.036) while ITN use was associated with having term babies (adjusted odds ratio 2.72, 95% CI: 1.24, 5.90; p = 0.013) and normal maternal haemoglobin concentration at term (adjusted odds ratio 1.57, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.47; p = 0.044). Conclusions The interventions were beneficial against low birthweight and preterm births which predispose to neonatal deaths and poor cognitive function in children. Malaria in pregnancy health campaigns should be intensified, especially among younger-aged primigravidae, to increase their knowledge of the condition as a way to further improve uptake of these preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abraham Kwadzo Ahiakpa
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Joseph Osarfo
- Joseph Osarfo, Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
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Adum P, Agyare VA, Owusu-Marfo J, Agyeman YN. Knowledge, attitude and practices of malaria preventive measures among mothers with children under five years in a rural setting of Ghana. Malar J 2023; 22:268. [PMID: 37700321 PMCID: PMC10498521 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04702-3] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria remains a major public health concern around the world, particularly in resource-constrained countries. Malaria still accounts for 40% of all Out-Patient Department (OPD) cases in Ghana, with children under the age of five being the most vulnerable group. The study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of malaria preventive measures among mothers with children under 5 years old in a rural setting in Ghana. METHODS A cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach was used in this study. The study was facility based and involved the use of interviewer administered questionnaires to collect data from 281 mothers with children under the age of five. Simple random sampling method was used to select the respondents. The data collected was analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 22 and results presented in tables. RESULTS There were 281 mothers, with 59.4% having children at the age of a year. The findings revealed that the majority of participants have a high level of knowledge about malaria's causes, signs, and symptoms. Again, the majority of participants demonstrated a positive attitude toward malaria prevention, such as seeking treatment at a hospital within 24 h of suspecting their children had malaria and demonstrating good knowledge of malaria prevention practices. Despite this, 35.5% of respondents were not actively engaged in malaria prevention practices in a day prior to the interview. Respondents' occupation, level of education, and religion had a statistically significant association with mothers' attitude towards prevention (p-values < 0.05 and 0.01). CONCLUSION The study's findings clearly demonstrate that the majority of mothers were knowledgeable about the causes, signs and symptoms, and preventive measures of malaria in children under the age of five. There was also statistically significant association between mothers' demographic information, including level of education, occupation, religion, and their attitude towards malaria prevention. A keen interest should be directed toward the consistent application of low-cost preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Adum
- Kintampo Municipal Government Hospital, Bono East Region, Kintampo, Ghana
| | - Veronica Adwoa Agyare
- Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives, Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana
- Ministry of Health Training Institution, SDA Nursing & Midwifery Training College Kwadaso, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Owusu-Marfo
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Disease Control, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
| | - Yaa Nyarko Agyeman
- Department of Population and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana
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Zerdo Z, Bastiaens H, Anthierens S, Massebo F, Masne M, Biresaw G, Shewangizaw M, Tunje A, Chisha Y, Yohannes T, Van Geertruyden JP. Effect of malaria prevention education on bed net utilization, incidence of malaria and treatment seeking among school-aged children in Southern Ethiopia; cluster randomized controlled trial. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:486. [PMID: 37474930 PMCID: PMC10360348 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08464-w] [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: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND School-aged children (SAC) have an increased risk to contract malaria and play a major role in its transmission dynamics. However, their malaria prevention experience is poor. Thus, the effect of malaria prevention education (MPE) on bed net utilization, treatment seeking from a health facility and cumulative incidence of malaria was evaluated in Southern Ethiopia. METHODS A two arm cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted by recruiting 2038 SAC from 32 schools. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic, economic, bed net ownership, bed net utilization, whether the participated child suffered from malaria and has got treatment from a health facility. Generalized mixed effect logistic regression using school as random variable was used to assess the effect of the intervention on the outcome variables. RESULTS The ownership of bed net in households of the control and intervention schools was similar respectively with 84.6 and 88.6% (Crude Odds Ratio (COR): 1.5; 95%CI: 0.5-4.8). The percentage of SAC slept under the bed net the night before the survey was also similar (55.1% versus 54.0%); COR:1.04; 95%CI: 0.5-2.4). Bed net utilization was affected by household size to the bed net ratio ≤ 2 (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.6; 95%CI:1.3-2.1), bed net utilization at baseline of the study (AOR = 2.3; 95%CI:1.5-3.6), and history of malaria attack in the last twelve months (AOR = 1.3; 95%CI:1.01-1.8). Reported cumulative incidence of malaria and treatment seeking from a health facility by SAC was similar between intervention and control arms: -2.1% (COR = 0.8; 95%CI: 0.5-1.5) and 9.6% (COR = 1.4; 95%CI: 0.4-4.3) respectively. The reported incidence of malaria was affected by altitude (AOR = 0.5; 95%CI: 0.3-0.8), low and medium wealth index (AOR = 0.7; 95%CI: 0.5-0.96 and AOR = 0.7; 95%CI: 0.5-0.98), adequate bed net number for household members (AOR = 0.7; 95%CI:0.5-0.9) and bed net utilization (AOR = 1.3; 95%CI:1.1-1.8). CONCLUSIONS MPE had no significant effect on the use of malaria prevention measures considered, treatment seeking from a health facility and reported cumulative incidence of malaria though bed net use was associated with malaria incidence. Before organizing any health education program, sustainable implementation efforts have to be warranted especially in SAC, a neglected but relevant vulnerable and reservoirs. TRIAL REGISTRATION Pan African Clinical Trials Registry PACTR202001837195738, registered 21/01/2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerihun Zerdo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia.
- Global Health Institute, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Hilde Bastiaens
- Department of family medicine and population health, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sibyl Anthierens
- Department of family medicine and population health, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Fekadu Massebo
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Matewos Masne
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Gelila Biresaw
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Misgun Shewangizaw
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abayneh Tunje
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Yilma Chisha
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Tsegaye Yohannes
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
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Naserrudin NA, Lin PYP, Monroe A, Culleton R, Baumann SE, Sato S, Adhikari B, Fornace KM, Hod R, Jeffree MS, Ahmed K, Hassan MR. Exploring barriers to and facilitators of malaria prevention practices: a photovoice study with rural communities at risk to Plasmodium knowlesi malaria in Sabah, Malaysia. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1316. [PMID: 37430300 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16173-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The control of Plasmodium knowlesi malaria remains challenging due to the presence of macaque monkeys and predominantly outdoor-biting Anopheles mosquitoes around human settlements. This study aims to explore the barriers and facilitators related to prevention of mosquito bites among rural communities living in Sabah, Malaysia using the participatory visual method, photovoice. METHODS From January through June 2022, 26 participants were recruited from four villages in Kudat, Sabah, using purposive sampling. Participants were male and female villagers, aged > 18 years old. After photovoice training in the villages, participants documented facilitators of and barriers related to avoiding mosquito bites using their own smartphone cameras, and provided narratives for their photos. Twelve Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) sessions in three rounds were held to share and discuss the photos, and to address challenges to the avoidance of mosquito bites. All discussions were conducted in the Sabah Malay dialect, and were video and audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The Ideation Model, a meta-theoretical model of behaviour change, underpinned this study. RESULTS The most common types of barriers identified by participants included (I) intrapersonal factors such as low perceived threat of malaria, (II) livelihood and lifestyle activities consisting of the local economy and socio-cultural activities, and (III) physical and social environment. The facilitators were categorized into (I) intrapersonal reasons, including having the opportunity to stay indoors, especially women who are housewives, (II) social support by the households, neaighbours and healthcare workers, and (III) support from healthcare services and malaria awareness program. Participants emphasized the importance of stakeholder's support in implementing feasible and affordable approaches to P. knowlesi malaria control. CONCLUSION Results provided insights regarding the challenges to preventing P. knowlesi malaria in rural Kudat, Sabah. The participation of communities in research was valuable in expanding knowledge of local challenges and highlighting possible ways to overcome barriers. These findings may be used to improve strategies for zoonotic malaria control, which is critical for advancing social change and minimizing health disparities in malaria prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Athirah Naserrudin
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Universiti Malaysia, 88400, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
- Sabah State Health Department, Ministry of Health, 88590, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Pauline Yong Pau Lin
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - April Monroe
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard Culleton
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Sara Elizabeth Baumann
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Shigeharu Sato
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Universiti Malaysia, 88400, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - 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
| | - Kimberly M Fornace
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rozita Hod
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Mohammad Saffree Jeffree
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Universiti Malaysia, 88400, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Kamruddin Ahmed
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Universiti Malaysia, 88400, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Rohaizat Hassan
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Universiti Malaysia, 88400, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
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Coleman S, Yihdego Y, Gyamfi F, Kolyada L, Tongren JE, Zigirumugabe S, Dery DB, Badu K, Obiri-Danso K, Boakye D, Szumlas D, Armistead JS, Dadzie SK. Estimating malaria transmission risk through surveillance of human-vector interactions in northern Ghana. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:205. [PMID: 37337221 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05793-2] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vector bionomics are important aspects of vector-borne disease control programs. Mosquito-biting risks are affected by environmental, mosquito behavior and human factors, which are important for assessing exposure risk and intervention impacts. This study estimated malaria transmission risk based on vector-human interactions in northern Ghana, where indoor residual spraying (IRS) and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) have been deployed. METHODS Indoor and outdoor human biting rates (HBRs) were measured using monthly human landing catches (HLCs) from June 2017 to April 2019. Mosquitoes collected were identified to species level, and Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (An. gambiae s.l.) samples were examined for parity and infectivity. The HBRs were adjusted using mosquito parity and human behavioral observations. RESULTS Anopheles gambiae was the main vector species in the IRS (81%) and control (83%) communities. Indoor and outdoor HBRs were similar in both the IRS intervention (10.6 vs. 11.3 bites per person per night [b/p/n]; z = -0.33, P = 0.745) and control communities (18.8 vs. 16.4 b/p/n; z = 1.57, P = 0.115). The mean proportion of parous An. gambiae s.l. was lower in IRS communities (44.6%) than in control communities (71.7%). After adjusting for human behavior observations and parity, the combined effect of IRS and ITN utilization (IRS: 37.8%; control: 57.3%) on reducing malaria transmission risk was 58% in IRS + ITN communities and 27% in control communities with ITNs alone (z = -4.07, P < 0.001). However, this also revealed that about 41% and 31% of outdoor adjusted bites in IRS and control communities respectively, occurred before bed time (10:00 pm). The mean directly measured annual entomologic inoculation rates (EIRs) during the study were 6.1 infective bites per person per year (ib/p/yr) for IRS communities and 16.3 ib/p/yr for control communities. After considering vector survival and observed human behavior, the estimated EIR for IRS communities was 1.8 ib/p/yr, which represents about a 70% overestimation of risk compared to the directly measured EIR; for control communities, it was 13.6 ib/p/yr (16% overestimation). CONCLUSION Indoor residual spraying significantly impacted entomological indicators of malaria transmission. The results of this study indicate that vector bionomics alone do not provide an accurate assessment of malaria transmission exposure risk. By accounting for human behavior parameters, we found that high coverage of ITNs alone had less impact on malaria transmission indices than combining ITNs with IRS, likely due to observed low net use. Reinforcing effective communication for behavioral change in net use and IRS could further reduce malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvester Coleman
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative VectorLink Project, Accra, Ghana.
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
| | - Yemane Yihdego
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative VectorLink Project, Accra, Ghana
| | - Frank Gyamfi
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative VectorLink Project, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lena Kolyada
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative VectorLink Project, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jon Eric Tongren
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative, Malaria Branch, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sixte Zigirumugabe
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative, U.S. Agency for International Development, Accra, Ghana
| | - Dominic B Dery
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative, U.S. Agency for International Development, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Badu
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Daniel Boakye
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Daniel Szumlas
- Armed Forces Pest Management Board, 172 Forney Road, Forest Glen Annex, Silver Spring, MD, 20910, USA
| | - Jennifer S Armistead
- U.S. President's Malaria Initiative, U.S. Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Samuel K Dadzie
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Wemakor A, Kpewou DE, Wemah K. Correlates of haemoglobin level in mothers of children under two years in Nanton district: A cross-sectional study from Ghana. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16021. [PMID: 37215882 PMCID: PMC10192525 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Anaemia, defined using haemoglobin level, is one of the most prevalent nutritional deficiency diseases among women of childbearing age. Whilst most studies of anaemia were conducted on pregnant women, data are lacking on the haemoglobin level and its correlates of mothers in Ghana. In this paper, we report data on the correlates of haemoglobin level among mothers in Nanton district, Northern Region, Ghana. Method A cross-sectional study design was used to study 420 mothers of children under 2 years selected randomly from the child welfare clinics (CWCs) of five health facilities in Nanton District, Ghana. Women were interviewed on their socio-demographic characteristics, dietary practices, reproductive history, and knowledge on anaemia using a structured questionnaire in health facilities. Haemoglobin values during pregnancy were retrieved from antenatal clinic files whilst finger-pricked blood test samples were obtained and used to determine haemoglobin levels during the survey. Multiple linear regression was used to identify the correlates of haemoglobin level of the mothers. Results The mean age (±SD) and parity of the subjects were 29.4 (±6.36) years, and 3.36 (±1.78) respectively. The mean haemoglobin (±SD) was 10.35 (±2.17) g/dl and 56.0% of the subjects had anaemia. Multivariable regression analysis identified 12 haemoglobin correlates, but based on standardized regression coefficients, the seven most important correlates of haemoglobin were: parity (β = -0.396), age (β = 0.352), having malaria infection postpartum (β = - 0.340), frequency of fruit consumption (once weekly, β = 0.322), frequency of vegetable consumption (twice weekly, β = 0.296), overall index of anaemia knowledge (richest tertile, β = 0.125), and CWC attendance (β = 0.110). It is recommended to strengthen family planning and malaria prevention programmes, and to intensify education on fruit and vegetable consumption, and anaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Wemakor
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University for Development Studies, P O Box TL 1883, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Daniel Edem Kpewou
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University for Development Studies, P O Box TL 1883, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Khadidjah Wemah
- Department of Global and International Health, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, P O Box TL 1883, Tamale, Ghana
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Tetteh J, Yorke E, Boima V, Yawson AE. Prevalence of malaria infection and the impact of mosquito bed net distribution among children aged 6-59 months in Ghana: Evidence from the Ghana demographic health and malarial indicator surveys. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2023; 21:e00302. [PMID: 37200871 PMCID: PMC10185735 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2023.e00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the prevalence of malaria infection and further quantify the impact of mosquito bed net distribution on malaria infection among children aged 6-59 months in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional study using Ghana Demographic Health (GDHS) and Malaria Indicator (GMIS) surveys (2014 GDHS, 2016 GMIS, and 2019 GMIS). The exposure and the main outcomes were mosquito bed net use (MBU) and malaria infection (MI). Relative percentage change (Δ) and prevalence ratio (PR) were estimated to assess the changes and the risk of MI by MBU respectively. The Propensity-score matching treatment effect model was employed to estimate the average treatment effect (ATE) of MBU on MI. All analyses were performed using Stata 16.1 and p-value<0.05 was deemed significant. Results The study involved 8781 children aged 6-59 months. MI ranged from 25.8%(22.3-29.7) in 2019 GMIS to 40.6%(37.0-44.2) in 2014 GDHS and the prevalence was significantly high among children who used mosquito bed net. The relative percentage change in MI prevalence showed a significant reduction rate and was high among non-MBU (p-value<0.05). In all, the adjusted PR of MI among children exposed to MBU was 1.21(1.08-1.35), 1.13(1.01-1.28), and 1.50(1.20-1.75) in 2014 GDHS, 2016 GMIS, and 2019 GMIS respectively. The average MI among participants who slept in mosquito bed net significantly increased by 8%(0.04 to 0.12), 4%(0.003 to 0.08), and 7%(0.03 to 0.11) in 2014 GDHS, 2016 GMIS, and 2019 GMIS respectively. Conclusion Even though malaria infection prevalence among children aged 6-59 months is decreasing, the reduction rate seems not to be directly linked with mosquito bed nets distribution and/or use in Ghana. For a continued distribution of mosquito bed nets, and for Ghana to achieve her Malaria Strategic Plan (NMSP) 2021-2025, program managers should ensure effective use of the distributed nets in addition to other preventive measures and nuanced consideration of community behaviours in Ghana. The effective use and care of bed nets should be emphasized as part of the distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Tetteh
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Corresponding author at: Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 4236, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Ernest Yorke
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Vincent Boima
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Alfred Edwin Yawson
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Kebede W, Tolcha A, Soboksa NE, Negassa B, Kanno GG, Aregu MB. Utilization of Insecticide-Treated Nets in Households for Under-5 Children and Associated Factors in East Mesekan District, Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2023; 17:11786302231164287. [PMID: 37007221 PMCID: PMC10052613 DOI: 10.1177/11786302231164287] [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: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are widely used tools that have been proven effective in preventing and controlling malaria. However, usage varies among households and can greatly affect the benefits of ITNs. Thus, this study aimed to assess the household utilization of insecticide-treated nets and its associated factors for under-5 children. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in March-April 2020 in the East Mesekan district. A total of 591 households with under-5 children were chosen by using a systematic random sampling approach for the interviews. The data was collected using a pretested questionnaire. Epi-Data version 3.1 was used to enter data and SPSS version 21 for analysis. A P-value of .05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS In this study, 58.2% (95% CI: [54.1%-62.2%]) of household participants used ITN for children under 5 years of age while sleeping the night before the survey. The study participants' overall knowledge and practice of malaria prevention were 27.1% and 23.9%, respectively. Having a family size of less than 5 (AOR = 0.60, 95% CI: [0.37-0.98]) and complaints of skin irritation (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI: [0.29-0.63]) significantly decreased ITN utilization. However, having 1 ITN (AOR = 2.15, 95% CI: [1.15-4.02]) or 2 ITNs (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: [1.51-4.39]), as well as low (AOR = 2.07, 95% CI: [1.33-3.20]) and medium (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI: [1.11-3.02]) knowledge of ITN importance, increased ITN utilization significantly. CONCLUSIONS The households' use of ITNs for children under the age of 5 was inadequate. It was significantly associated with having a family size of less than 5, complaints of skin irritation, owning 1 or 2 ITNs, and having low and medium knowledge of its importance. It is recommended that continuous and progressive health awareness about the consistent use of ITN for malaria prevention in the study area be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Welyou Kebede
- Meskan District Health Office, Gurage Zone Health Department, Southern Nations & Nationalities Peoples Regional Health Bureau, Wolkite, SNNPR, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Tolcha
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Science and Medicine Hawassa University, Hawassa, Southern Nations, Ethiopia
| | - Negasa Eshete Soboksa
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Science and Medicine Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Belay Negassa
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Science and Medicine Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Girum Gebremeskel Kanno
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Science and Medicine Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Mekonnen Birhanie Aregu
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Science and Medicine Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
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15
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Koenker H, Kumoji EK, Erskine M, Opoku R, Sternberg E, Taylor C. Reported reasons for non-use of insecticide-treated nets in large national household surveys, 2009-2021. Malar J 2023; 22:61. [PMID: 36810015 PMCID: PMC9942310 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04490-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insecticide-treated nets (ITN) are the cornerstone of modern malaria vector control, with nearly 3 billion ITNs delivered to households in endemic areas since 2000. ITN access, i.e. availability within the household, based on the number of ITNs and number of household members, is a pre-requisite for ITN use. Factors determining ITN use are frequently examined in published literature, but to date, large household survey data on reasons given for non-use of nets have not been explored. METHODS A total of 156 DHS, MIS, and MICS surveys conducted between 2003 and 2021 were reviewed for questions on reasons why nets were not used the previous night, identifying twenty-seven surveys. The percent of nets that were reported used the previous night was calculated for the 156 surveys, and frequencies and proportions of reasons for non-use were calculated within the twenty-seven surveys. Results were stratified by household supply of ITNs in three categories (not enough", "enough", and "more than enough") and by residence (urban/rural). RESULTS The proportion of nets used the previous night averaged over 70% between 2003 and 2021, with no discernible change over this period. Reported reasons for why a net goes unused fell largely into three categories-nets that are extra/being saved for future use; the perception that there is little risk of malaria (particularly in dry season); and "other" responses. Net attributes such as colour, size, shape, and texture, and concerns related to chemicals were the least frequent reasons given. Reasons for non-use of nets varied by household net supply, and in some surveys by residence. In Senegal's continuous DHS, the proportion of nets used peaked during high transmission season, and the proportion of nets that went unused due to "no/few mosquitoes" peaked during the dry season. CONCLUSIONS Unused nets were primarily those being saved for later use, or were not used due to perceived low risk of malaria. Classifying reasons for non-use into broader categories facilitates the design of appropriate social and behaviour change interventions to address the major underlying reasons for non-use, where this is feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E. Kuor Kumoji
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Marcy Erskine
- grid.475581.a0000 0004 0411 9738International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert Opoku
- grid.475581.a0000 0004 0411 9738International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Cameron Taylor
- grid.431760.70000 0001 0940 5336The DHS Program, ICF, Rockville, USA ,grid.5284.b0000 0001 0790 3681University of Antwerp, Medicine and Health Sciences, Antwerp, Belgium
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16
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Babalola S, Kumoji K, Awantang GN, Oyenubi OA, Toso M, Tsang S, Bleu T, Achu D, Hedge J, Schnabel DC, Cash S, Van Lith LM, McCartney-Melstad AC, Nkomou Y, Dosso A, Lahai W, Hunter GC. Ideational factors associated with consistent use of insecticide-treated nets: a multi-country, multilevel analysis. Malar J 2022; 21:374. [PMID: 36474206 PMCID: PMC9724329 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04384-3] [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: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) every night, year-round is critical to maximize protection against malaria. This study describes sociodemographic, psychosocial, and household factors associated with consistent ITN use in Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone. METHODS Cross-sectional household surveys employed similar sampling procedures, data collection tools, and methods in three countries. The survey sample was nationally representative in Côte d'Ivoire, representative of the North and Far North regions in Cameroon, and representative of Bo and Port Loko districts in Sierra Leone. Analysis used multilevel logistic regression and sociodemographic, ideational, and household independent variables among households with at least one ITN to identify correlates of consistent ITN use, defined as sleeping under an ITN every night the preceding week. FINDINGS Consistent ITN use in Côte d'Ivoire was 65.4%, 72.6% in Cameroon, and 77.1% in Sierra Leone. While several sociodemographic and ideational variables were correlated with consistent ITN use, these varied across countries. Multilevel logistic regression results showed perceived self-efficacy to use ITNs and positive attitudes towards ITN use were variables associated with consistent use in all three countries. The perception of ITN use as a community norm was positively linked with consistent use in Cameroon and Côte d'Ivoire but was not significant in Sierra Leone. Perceived vulnerability to malaria was positively linked with consistent use in Cameroon and Sierra Leone but negatively correlated with the outcome in Côte d'Ivoire. Household net sufficiency was strongly and positively associated with consistent use in all three countries. Finally, the findings revealed strong clustering at the household and enumeration area (EA) levels, suggesting similarities in net use among respondents of the same EA and in the same household. CONCLUSIONS There are similarities and differences in the variables associated with consistent ITN use across the three countries and several ideational variables are significant. The findings suggest that a social and behaviour change strategy based on the ideation model is relevant for increasing consistent ITN use and can inform specific strategies for each context. Finally, ensuring household net sufficiency is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Babalola
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Kuor Kumoji
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Grace N. Awantang
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Olamide A. Oyenubi
- grid.416147.10000 0004 0455 9186Department of Internal Medicine, Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital, New Rochelle, USA
| | - Michael Toso
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Samantha Tsang
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Therese Bleu
- National Malaria Control Programme, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Dorothy Achu
- National Malaria Control Programme, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Judith Hedge
- U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - David C. Schnabel
- U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Shelby Cash
- grid.416738.f0000 0001 2163 0069U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Lynn M. Van Lith
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Anna C. McCartney-Melstad
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
| | - Yannick Nkomou
- PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Abdul Dosso
- PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Wani Lahai
- National Malaria Control Programme, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Gabrielle C. Hunter
- grid.449467.c0000000122274844PMI Breakthrough ACTION Project, Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, USA
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17
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Ngonghala CN, Bhattacharyya S. An evolutionary game model of individual choices and bed net use: elucidating key aspect in malaria elimination strategies. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220685. [PMID: 36405633 PMCID: PMC9667140 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Insecticide-treated net (ITN) is the most applicable and cost-effective malaria intervention measure in sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere. Although ITNs have been widely distributed to malaria-endemic regions in the past, their success has been threatened by misuses (in fishing, agriculture etc.) and decay in ITN efficacy. Decision-making in using the ITNs depends on multiple coevolving factors: malaria prevalence, mosquito density, ITN availability and its efficacy, and other socio-economic determinants. While ITN misuse increases as the efficacy of ITNs declines, high efficacy also impedes proper use due to free-riding. This irrational usage leads to increased malaria prevalence, thereby worsening malaria control efforts. It also remains unclear if the optimum ITN use for malaria elimination can be achieved under such an adaptive social learning process. Here, we incorporate evolutionary game theory into a disease transmission model to demonstrate these behavioural interactions and their impact on malaria prevalence. We show that social optimum usage is a function of transmission potential, ITN efficacy and mosquito demography. Under specific parameter regimes, our model exhibits patterns of ITN usage similar to observed data from parts of Africa. Our study suggests that the provision of financial incentives as prompt feedback to improper ITN use can reduce misuse and contribute positively towards malaria elimination efforts in Africa and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calistus N. Ngonghala
- Department of Mathematics and Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Samit Bhattacharyya
- Disease Modelling Lab, Department of Mathematics, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Gautam Buddha Nagar, India
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Aninagyei E, Boakye AA, Tettey CO, Ntiri KA, Ofori SO, Tetteh CD, Aphour TT, Rufai T. Utilization of 18s ribosomal RNA LAMP for detecting Plasmodium falciparum in microscopy and rapid diagnostic test negative patients. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275052. [PMID: 36201568 PMCID: PMC9536604 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275052] [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: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, Plasmodium falciparum was detected in patients that were declared negative for malaria microscopy and rapid diagnostic test kit (mRDT), using Plasmodium 18s rRNA loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique. The main aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of LAMP assay for detecting pre-clinical malaria, when microscopy and mRDT were less sensitive. DNA was obtained from 100 μL of whole blood using the boil and spin method. Subsequently, the Plasmodium 18s rRNA LAMP assay was performed to amplify the specific Plasmodium 18s rRNA gene. Microscopy and mRDT negative samples [697/2223 (31.2%)] were used for this study. Compared to frequencies obtained for the other demographic variables, most of the patients were < 6 years (37.7%), females (59.0%), peri-urban dwellers (39.0%) and patients that sought outpatient department services (39.3%). Overall, the prevalence of Plasmodium 18s rRNA was 17.5%. when stratified by study variables, Plasmodium 18s rRNA LAMP positivity was higher in patients over 30 years [58/122 (54.2%)], males [69/122 (56.5%)], rural dwellers [69/122 (56.5%)] and patients that sought OPD services [68/122 (55.7%)]. The risk of being infected with Plasmodium when routine tests were negative was higher in 15-30-year group (OR = 3.03, 95% CI: 1.6-5.8, p = 0.0007), patients > 30 years (OR = 15.2, 95% CI: 8.3-27.7, p<0.001), males (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.4-3.2, p = 0.0002) and rural dwellers (OR = 2.2, 95% CI:1.4-3.6, p = 0.0009). However, risk was lower in post-natal children (OR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.18-0.51, p<0.001). Majority (81.5%) of the infected patients presented with headache, herpes labialis, diarrhea and vomiting. We demonstrated the lack of sensitivities of microscopy and mRDT for one-time diagnosis of malaria. Therefore, it is essential to utilize a sensitive technique such as Plasmodium 18s rRNA LAMP to increase the detection rate of Plasmodium infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Aninagyei
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Adjoa Agyemang Boakye
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Clement Okraku Tettey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Kofi Adjei Ntiri
- Ghana Health Service, Greater Accra Region, Mayera-Faase Health Centre, Mayera-Faase, Ghana
| | | | - Comfort Dede Tetteh
- Ghana Health Service, Municipal Health Directorate, Ga West Municipal, Amasaman, Ghana
| | - Thelma Teley Aphour
- Ghana Health Service, Greater Accra Region, Ablekuma North Health Directorate, Accra, Ghana
| | - Tanko Rufai
- Ghana Health Service, Eastern Region, New Juaben South Municipal Health Directorate, Koforidua, Ghana
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States of America
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Ahorlu CS, Ndong IC, Okyere D, Mensah BA, Chu CE, Enos JY, Abuaku B. The Effect of Mass Testing, Treatment and Tracking on the Prevalence of Febrile Illness in Children under 15 in Ghana. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101118. [PMID: 36297175 PMCID: PMC9609179 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Malaria remains a serious threat to children under 15 years of age in sub-Sahara Africa. Mass testing, treatment and tracking (MTTT) of malaria has been reported to reduce parasite load significantly. However, the impact of MTTT on the prevalence of febrile illnesses in children under 15 is not yet clear. This study explores the impact of MTTT complemented by prompt home-based management of malaria on febrile illnesses and their treatment in children under 15 years old. Methods: A cohort of 460 children under 15 years were recruited from the Pakro subdistrict in Ghana during a community-wide implementation of a quarterly MTTT intervention. The MTTT implementation involved testing all household members for malaria using RDTs, and positive cases were treated with Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). Febrile illnesses among this cohort in the two weeks prior to the prevalence survey at baseline and endline were recorded to constitute date for analysis. Results: The prevalence of febrile illnesses, such chills, convulsion, fever, diarrhoea, headache, vomit, cough/rashes or stomachache, etc., were recorded). Asymptomatic parasitaemia prevalence at baseline was 53.3%, which dropped to 44.1% at evaluation. An overall decrease in the parasitaemia prevalence of 33.0% (OR = 0.67, CI = 0.50, 0.89) was observed at evaluation compared to baseline after adjusting for age, ITN use and temperature. A 67% decrease in severe anaemia cases (Hb < 7) was observed at evaluation. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that implementing MTTT complemented by home-based timely management of malaria does not only reduce febrile illnesses and for that matter malaria prevalence, but could also reduce severe anaemia in children under 15 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collins Stephen Ahorlu
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
- Correspondence:
| | - Ignatius Cheng Ndong
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Catholic University of Cameroon, Bamenda P.O. Box 572, Cameroon
| | - Daniel Okyere
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
| | - Benedicta A. Mensah
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
| | - Chuo Ennestine Chu
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Catholic University of Cameroon, Bamenda P.O. Box 572, Cameroon
| | - Juliana Y. Enos
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
| | - Benjamin Abuaku
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box LG 581, Ghana
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Agboli E, Tomazatos A, Maiga-Ascofaré O, May J, Lühken R, Schmidt-Chanasit J, Jöst H. Arbovirus Epidemiology: The Mystery of Unnoticed Epidemics in Ghana, West Africa. Microorganisms 2022; 10:1914. [PMID: 36296190 PMCID: PMC9610185 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10101914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
It is evident that all the countries surrounding Ghana have experienced epidemics of key arboviruses of medical importance, such as the recent dengue fever epidemic in Burkina Faso. Therefore, Ghana is considered a ripe zone for epidemics of arboviruses, mainly dengue. Surprisingly, Ghana never experienced the propounded deadly dengue epidemic. Indeed, it is mysterious because the mosquito vectors capable of transmitting the dengue virus, such as Aedes aegypti, were identified in Ghana through entomological investigations. Additionally, cases may be missed, as the diagnostic and surveillance capacities of the country are weak. Therefore, we review the arbovirus situation and outline probable reasons for the epidemic mystery in the country. Most of the recorded cases of arbovirus infections were usually investigated via serology by detecting IgM and IgG immunoglobulins in clinical samples, which is indicative of prior exposure but not an active case. This led to the identification of yellow fever virus and dengue virus as the main circulating arboviruses among the Ghanaian population. However, major yellow fever epidemics were reported for over a decade. It is important to note that the reviewed arboviruses were not frequently detected in the vectors. The data highlight the necessity of strengthening the diagnostics and the need for continuous arbovirus and vector surveillance to provide an early warning system for future arbovirus epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Agboli
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
- University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho PMB 31, Ghana
| | - Alexandru Tomazatos
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Oumou Maiga-Ascofaré
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, PMB, Kumasi 039-5028, Ghana
| | - Jürgen May
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Renke Lühken
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
- Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Universität Hamburg, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hanna Jöst
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Haemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
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21
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Zerdo Z, Anthierens S, Van Geertruyden JP, Massebo F, Biresaw G, Shewangizaw M, Endashaw G, Tunje A, Masne M, Bastiaens H. Implementation of a malaria prevention education intervention in Southern Ethiopia: a qualitative evaluation. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1811. [PMID: 36151537 PMCID: PMC9508754 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14200-x] [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: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though school-aged children (SAC) are at high risk of malaria, they are the ones that benefit the least from malaria prevention measures. A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of malaria prevention education (MPE) on insecticide-treated bed net (ITN) utilization and prompt diagnosis, reported incidence and treatment (PDAT) of malaria. Qualitative evaluation of the implementation of such interventions is vital to explain its effectiveness and will serve as guidance for future interventions. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the MPE in southern Ethiopia. METHODS: The trial was registered in Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR202001837195738) on 21/01/2020. A descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interview with participants of the MPE was conducted in January 2020 and January 2021. The collected data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. The analysis of the data was supported by NVivo. RESULTS The four themes identified after evaluation of MPE training were the setup of the training, challenges for the success of the training, anticipated challenges for practice as per the protocol and experienced immediate influences of the training. Participants appreciated the training: content covered, way of delivery and the mix of the participants. The context specific facilitators to bed net use were the collateral benefits of ITN and perceived at high risk of malaria while its barriers were quality and quantity of the bed nets, bed net associated discomforts, malaria health literacy and housing condition. Severeness of malaria symptoms and malaria health literacy were reported as both barriers and facilitators of the PDAT of malaria. The identified facilitators of PDAT of malaria were health professionals' attitude and exposure to MPE while its barriers were poverty, use of traditional medicine, health facility problems and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. CONCLUSION Low attendance of parents in the training was the major challenge for the success of MPE. National malaria program should ensure the access to malaria prevention measures; and future studies using increased frequency of the intervention embedded with monitoring adherence to the intervention protocol shall be conducted to improve the gains from existing malaria interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerihun Zerdo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia. .,Global Health Institute, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Sibyl Anthierens
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Fekadu Massebo
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Gelila Biresaw
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Misgun Shewangizaw
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Gesila Endashaw
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abayneh Tunje
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Matewos Masne
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Hilde Bastiaens
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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22
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Mgaya JN, Siria DJ, Makala FE, Mgando JP, Vianney JM, Mwanga EP, Okumu FO. Effects of sample preservation methods and duration of storage on the performance of mid-infrared spectroscopy for predicting the age of malaria vectors. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:281. [PMID: 35933384 PMCID: PMC9356448 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05396-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring the biological attributes of mosquitoes is critical for understanding pathogen transmission and estimating the impacts of vector control interventions on the survival of vector species. Infrared spectroscopy and machine learning techniques are increasingly being tested for this purpose and have been proven to accurately predict the age, species, blood-meal sources, and pathogen infections in Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes. However, as these techniques are still in early-stage implementation, there are no standardized procedures for handling samples prior to the infrared scanning. This study investigated the effects of different preservation methods and storage duration on the performance of mid-infrared spectroscopy for age-grading females of the malaria vector, Anopheles arabiensis. METHODS Laboratory-reared An. arabiensis (N = 3681) were collected at 5 and 17 days post-emergence, killed with ethanol, and then preserved using silica desiccant at 5 °C, freezing at - 20 °C, or absolute ethanol at room temperature. For each preservation method, the mosquitoes were divided into three groups, stored for 1, 4, or 8 weeks, and then scanned using a mid-infrared spectrometer. Supervised machine learning classifiers were trained with the infrared spectra, and the support vector machine (SVM) emerged as the best model for predicting the mosquito ages. RESULTS The model trained using silica-preserved mosquitoes achieved 95% accuracy when predicting the ages of other silica-preserved mosquitoes, but declined to 72% and 66% when age-classifying mosquitoes preserved using ethanol and freezing, respectively. Prediction accuracies of models trained on samples preserved in ethanol and freezing also reduced when these models were applied to samples preserved by other methods. Similarly, models trained on 1-week stored samples had declining accuracies of 97%, 83%, and 72% when predicting the ages of mosquitoes stored for 1, 4, or 8 weeks respectively. CONCLUSIONS When using mid-infrared spectroscopy and supervised machine learning to age-grade mosquitoes, the highest accuracies are achieved when the training and test samples are preserved in the same way and stored for similar durations. However, when the test and training samples were handled differently, the classification accuracies declined significantly. Protocols for infrared-based entomological studies should therefore emphasize standardized sample-handling procedures and possibly additional statistical procedures such as transfer learning for greater accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline N Mgaya
- Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 53, Ifakara, Tanzania.
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania.
| | - Doreen J Siria
- Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 53, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | - Faraja E Makala
- Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 53, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | - Joseph P Mgando
- Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 53, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | - John-Mary Vianney
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Emmanuel P Mwanga
- Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 53, Ifakara, Tanzania.
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
| | - Fredros O Okumu
- Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 53, Ifakara, Tanzania.
- School of Life Science and Bioengineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania.
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
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Okumu F, Gyapong M, Casamitjana N, Castro MC, Itoe MA, Okonofua F, Tanner M. What Africa can do to accelerate and sustain progress against malaria. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000262. [PMID: 36962314 PMCID: PMC10021840 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
After a longstanding global presence, malaria is now largely non-existent or suppressed in most parts of the world. Today, cases and deaths are primarily concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa. According to many experts, this persistence on the African continent reflects factors such as resistance to insecticides and drugs as well as insufficient access to essential commodities such as insecticide-treated nets and effective drugs. Crucially, however, this narrative ignores many central weaknesses in the fight against malaria and instead reinforces a narrow, commodity-driven vision of disease control. This paper therefore describes the core challenges hindering malaria programs in Africa and highlights key opportunities to rethink current strategies for sustainable control and elimination. The epidemiology of malaria in Africa presents far greater challenges than elsewhere and requires context-specific initiatives tailored to national and sub-national targets. To sustain progress, African countries must systematically address key weaknesses in its health systems, improve the quality and use of data for surveillance-responses, improve both technical and leadership competencies for malaria control, and gradually reduce overreliance on commodities while expanding multisectoral initiatives such as improved housing and environmental sanitation. They must also leverage increased funding from both domestic and international sources, and support pivotal research and development efforts locally. Effective vaccines and drugs, or other potentially transformative technologies such as genedrive modified mosquitoes, could further accelerate malaria control by complementing current tools. However, our underlying strategies remain insufficient and must be expanded to include more holistic and context-specific approaches critical to achieve and sustain effective malaria control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margaret Gyapong
- Centre for Health Policy and Implementation Research, Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Núria Casamitjana
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic–University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marcia C. Castro
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Maurice A. Itoe
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Friday Okonofua
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Marcel Tanner
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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24
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Naserrudin NA, Monroe A, Culleton R, Hod R, Jeffree MS, Ahmed K, Hassan MR. Reimagining zoonotic malaria control in communities exposed to Plasmodium knowlesi infection. J Physiol Anthropol 2022; 41:14. [PMID: 35413881 PMCID: PMC9004057 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-022-00288-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium knowlesi malaria infection in humans has been reported throughout southeast Asia. The communities at risk are those living in areas where Macaque monkeys and Anopheles mosquito are present. Zoonotic malaria control is challenging due to the presence of the reservoir host and the possibility of human-vector-human transmission. Current control measures, including insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), are insufficient to address this threat due to gaps in protection associated with outdoor and early evening vector biting and social and economic activities, such as agricultural and forest work. Understanding the challenges faced by affected communities in preventing mosquito bites is important for reducing disease transmission. This opinion paper discusses opportunities to improve P. knowlesi malaria control through understanding the challenges faced by communities at risk and increasing community engagement and ownership of control measures. The paper highlights this issue by describing how the concept of reimagining malaria can be adapted to zoonotic malaria control measures including identifying current gaps in vector control, understanding interactions between environmental, economic, and human behavioral factors, and increasing community participation in and ownership of control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Athirah Naserrudin
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.,Sabah State Health Department, Ministry of Health, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - April Monroe
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Richard Culleton
- Department of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Centre, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Rozita Hod
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Saffree Jeffree
- Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.,Department of Public Health, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Kamruddin Ahmed
- Borneo Medical and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.,Department of Public Health, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Rohaizat Hassan
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Klu D, Aberese-Ako M, Manyeh AK, Immurana M, Doegah P, Dalaba M, Acquah E, Alhassan RK, Ansah EK. Mixed effect analysis of factors influencing the use of insecticides treated bed nets among pregnant women in Ghana: evidence from the 2019 Malaria Indicator Survey. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:258. [PMID: 35346098 PMCID: PMC8958761 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria during pregnancy is a major cause of maternal morbidity globally and leads to poor birth outcomes. The World Health Organization has recommended the use of insecticide treated bed nets (ITN) as one of the effective malaria preventive strategies among pregnant women in malaria endemic areas. This study, therefore, seeks to examine the individual and household factors associated with the use of ITNs among pregnant women in Ghana. Methods Data for this study was obtained from the 2019 Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey (GMIS) conducted between September 25 and November 24, 2019. The weighted sample comprised 353 pregnant women aged 15–49 years. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 22 using both descriptive and multilevel logistics regression modelling. Statistically significant level was set at p < 0.05. Results The study found that 49.2% of pregnant women in Ghana use ITN to prevent malaria. Pregnant women aged 35–49 years (AOR = 3.403, CI: 1.191–9.725), those with no formal education (AOR = 5.585, CI = 1.315–23.716), and those who had secondary education (AOR = 3.509, CI = 1.076–11.440) had higher odds of using ITN. Similarly, higher odds of ITN usage was found among who belonged to the Akan ethnic group (AOR = 7.234, CI = 1.497–34.955), dwell in male-headed households (AOR = 2.232, CI = 1.105–4.508) and those whose household heads are aged 60–69 years (AOR = 4.303, CI = 1.160–15.966). However, pregnant women who resided in urban areas (AOR = 0.355, CI = 0.216–0.582), those whose household heads aged 40–49 years (AOR = 0.175, CI = 0.066–0.467) and those who belonged to richer (AOR =0.184, CI = 0.050–0.679) and richest (AOR = 0.107, CI = 0.021–0.552) households had lower odds of using ITN for malaria prevention. Conclusions Individual socio-demographic and household factors such as pregnant women’s age, educational level, place of residence, ethnicity, sex and age of household head, and household wealth quintile are associated with the use of ITN for malaria prevention among pregnant women. These factors ought to be considered in strengthening malaria prevention campaigns and develop new interventions to help increase ITN utilization among vulnerable population living in malaria- endemic areas.
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Madumla EP, Moore SJ, Moore J, Mbuba E, Mbeyela EM, Kibondo UA, C S, Mmbaga, Kobe D, Baraka J, Msellemu D, Swai JK, Mboma ZM, Odufuwa OG. "In starvation, a bone can also be meat": a mixed methods evaluation of factors associated with discarding of long-lasting insecticidal nets in Bagamoyo, Tanzania. Malar J 2022; 21:101. [PMID: 35331242 PMCID: PMC8944021 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04126-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between 2000 and 2019, more than 1.8 billion long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) were distributed in Africa. While the insecticidal durability of LLINs is around 3 years, nets are commonly discarded 2 years post distribution. This study investigated the factors associated with the decision of users to discard LLINs. METHODS A mixed-method sequential explanatory approach using a structured questionnaire followed by focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect information on experiences, views, reasons, how and when LLINs are discarded. Out of 6,526 households that responded to the questionnaire of LLINs durability trial, 160 households were randomly selected from the households in four villages in Bagamoyo Tanzania for FGDs but only 155 households participated in the FGDs. Five of the household representatives couldn't participate due to unexpected circumstances. A total of sixteen FGDs each comprising of 8-10 adults were conducted; older women (40-60 years), older men (40-60 years), younger women (18-39 years), younger men (18-39 years). During the FGDs, participants visually inspected seven samples of LLINs that were "too-torn" based on Proportionate Hole Index recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on LLIN testing, the nets were brought to the discussion and participants had to determine if such LLINs were to be kept or discarded. The study assessed responses from the same participants that attended FGD and also responded to the structured questionnaire, 117 participants fulfilled the criteria, thus data from only 117 participants are analysed in this study. RESULTS In FGDs, integrity of LLIN influenced the decision to discard or keep a net. Those of older age, women, and householders with lower income were more likely to classify a WHO "too-torn" net as "good". The common methods used to discard LLINs were burning and burying. The findings were seen in the quantitative analysis. For every additional hole, the odds of discarding a WHO "too-torn" LLIN increased [OR = 1.05 (95%CI (1.04-1.07)), p < 0.001]. Younger age group [OR = 4.97 (95%CI (3.25-7.32)), p < 0.001], male-headed households [OR = 6.85 (95%CI (4.44 -10.59)), p < 0.001], and wealthy households [OR = 3.88 (95%CI (2.33-6.46)), p < 0.001] were more likely to discard LLINs. CONCLUSION Integrity of LLIN was the main determinant for discarding or keeping LLINs and the decision to discard the net is associated with socioeconomic status of the household, and the age and gender of respondents. WHO "too torn" nets are encouraged to be used instead of none until replacement, and disposal of nets should be based on recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith P Madumla
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania.
- Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Tengeru, Arusha, Tanzania.
| | - Sarah J Moore
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
- Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Tengeru, Arusha, Tanzania
- Vector Biology Unit, Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwil, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, St. Petersplatz 1, CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jason Moore
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
- Vector Biology Unit, Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwil, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuel Mbuba
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
- Vector Biology Unit, Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwil, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, St. Petersplatz 1, CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Edgar M Mbeyela
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Ummi A Kibondo
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | | | - Mmbaga
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Dickson Kobe
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Jitihada Baraka
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Daniel Msellemu
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
- Vector Biology Unit, Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwil, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, St. Petersplatz 1, CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Johnson K Swai
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Zawadi M Mboma
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Olukayode G Odufuwa
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Science Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
- Vector Biology Unit, Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwil, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
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The Role of Human Behavior in Plasmodium knowlesi Malaria Infection: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063675. [PMID: 35329359 PMCID: PMC8953169 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Plasmodium knowlesi is a non-human parasite that causes zoonotic disease in humans. This systematic review aims to highlight and summarize studies describing human behaviors and activities that expose humans to mosquito bites. Design: English entries in PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct from 2010 to 2020 were systematically perused, and the results were synthesized. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute quality appraisal checklists. Setting: Studies that described malaria preventive measures were included. Laboratory, in vivo, in vitro, and animal studies were excluded. Primary and secondary outcome measures: The main outcome of the review was findings from studies describing the behavior that exposed a person or a group to P. knowlesi infection. Results: Twelve eligible studies were of good or medium quality. Attitude, disease misconceptions, perceived threat of disease, lack of motivation, and supernatural or traditional beliefs causing individuals to seek treatment from traditional healers influenced the exposure of individuals or communities to P. knowlesi malaria. Other factors were forestry activities (2.48, 1.45–4.23,95% CI, p = 0.0010) and sleeping outdoors (3.611, 1.48–8.85, 95% CI, p = 0.0049). Conclusions: Future studies must consider the importance of human behavior and community perspective on the infection to provide novel information to improve the current zoonotic malaria programs. Policymakers should concentrate on understanding human behavior and activities that expose individuals or communities to mosquito bites, in order to better design socially feasible interventions.
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Nguyen TT, Nguyen XX, Wilson-Barthes M, Sawada I, Muela J, Hausmann-Muela S, Pham TV, Van Nguyen H, Van Nguyen V, Tran DT, Gryseels C, D'Alessandro U, Grietens KP, Erhart A. Why using bed nets is a challenge among minority populations in Central Vietnam. Malar J 2022; 21:87. [PMID: 35292018 PMCID: PMC8922825 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04114-9] [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: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite freely distributed insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and health information campaigns to increase their use among populations at risk, malaria transmission persists in forested areas in Vietnam, especially among ethnic minority communities. A mixed-methods study was conducted in four villages of Ca Dong and M'nong ethnicity in Central Vietnam between 2009 and 2011 to assess factors limiting the uptake of ITNs. METHODS The mixed-methods research design consisted of a qualitative study to explore the context and barriers to ITN use, and a cross-sectional household survey (n = 141) to quantify factors for limited and appropriate net use. RESULTS The Ca Dong and M'nong's livelihood was dependent on swidden farming in the forest. Poverty-related factors, including the lack of beds, blankets, the practice of sleeping around the kitchen fire and deteriorated ITNs due to open housing structures, were reasons for alternative and non-use of ITNs. When household members stayed overnight in plot huts at fields, ITNs were even more unavailable and easily deteriorated. 72.5% of households reported having received one net for every two persons, and 82.2% of participants reported to have used ITNs the night before the survey. However, only 18.4% of participants were estimated to be effectively protected by ITNs after accounting for the availability of torn ITNs and the way ITNs were used, for example as blankets, at both village and fields. Multi-variable logistic regression showed the effect of four significant factors for appropriate ITN use: i) being female (AOR = 8.08; p = 0.009); ii) aware of mosquito bites as the sole cause of malaria (AOR = 7.43; p = 0.008); iii) not sleeping around the kitchen fire (AOR = 24.57; p = 0.001); and iv) having sufficient number of ITNs in the household (AOR = 21.69; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION This study showed how social factors rooted in poverty and swidden agriculture limited the effective use of ITNs, despite high coverage, among ethnic minority populations in Central Vietnam. An in-depth understanding of the local context is essential to develop specific indicators for measuring ITN use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuan Thi Nguyen
- Socio-Ecological Health Research Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium. .,National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Xa Xuan Nguyen
- National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Marta Wilson-Barthes
- International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
| | - Ikumi Sawada
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Joan Muela
- University Ramon I Virgili, Tarragona, Spain.,Partners for Applied Social Sciences, PASS International, Tessenderlo, Belgium
| | | | - Thanh Vinh Pham
- National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hong Van Nguyen
- National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Duong Thanh Tran
- National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Charlotte Gryseels
- Socio-Ecological Health Research Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Umberto D'Alessandro
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Koen Peeters Grietens
- Socio-Ecological Health Research Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Partners for Applied Social Sciences, PASS International, Tessenderlo, Belgium.,School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Annette Erhart
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
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Malaria prevention interventions beyond long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Malar J 2022; 21:31. [PMID: 35109848 PMCID: PMC8812253 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04052-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Significant progress in malaria prevention during the past two decades has prompted increasing global dialogue on malaria elimination. Recent reviews on malaria strategies have focused mainly on long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), with little emphasis on other prevention methods. This article is a scoping review of literature on malaria prevention methods beyond LLINs and IRS in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods This scoping review found articles published between from 1994 to 2020. Studies were obtained from a search of the PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Social Science abstracts. Grey literature and manual search of secondary references was also done. The search strategy included all study designs but limited only to English. Three independent reviewers performed the selection and characterization of articles, and the data collected were synthesized qualitatively. Results A total of 10,112 studies were identified among which 31 met the inclusion criteria. The results were grouped by the 3 emerging themes of: housing design; mosquito repellents; and integrated vector control. Housing design strategies included closing eves, screening of houses including windows, doors and ceilings, while mosquito repellents were mainly spatial repellents, use of repellent plants, and use of plant-based oils. Integrated vector control included larvae source management. Evidence consistently shows that improving housing design reduced mosquito entry and malaria prevalence. Spatial repellents also showed promising results in field experiments, while evidence on repellent plants is limited and still emerging. Recent literature shows that IVM has been largely ignored in recent years in many LMICs. Some malaria prevention methods such as spatial repellents and IVM are shown to have the potential to target both indoor and outdoor transmission of malaria, which are both important aspects to consider to achieve malaria elimination in LMICs. Conclusion The scoping review shows that other malaria prevention strategies beyond LLINs and IRS have increasingly become important in LMICs. These methods have a significant role in contributing to malaria elimination in endemic countries if they are adequately promoted alongside other conventional approaches. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12936-022-04052-6.
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Akuffo R, Wilson M, Sarfo B, Dako-Gyeke P, Adanu R, Anto F. Insecticide-treated net (ITN) use, factors associated with non-use of ITNs, and occurrence of sand flies in three communities with reported cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ghana. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261192. [PMID: 34914742 PMCID: PMC8675665 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The insecticide treated bed net (ITN) has been proven for malaria control. Evidence from systematic review also suggests benefits of ITN roll out in reducing the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and other vector borne diseases. Methods Using a community-based cross-sectional study design, ITN use, factors associated with non-use of ITNs, and occurrence of sand flies were investigated in three communities with reported cases of CL in the Oti region of Ghana. Results A total of 587 households comprising 189 (32.2%), 200 (34.1%), and 198 (33.7%) households from Ashiabre, Keri, and Sibi Hilltop communities with de facto population of 3639 participated in this study. The proportion of households that owned at least one ITN was 97.1%. The number of households having at least one ITN for every two members was 386 (65.8%) and 3159 (86.8%) household population had access to ITN. The household population that slept in ITN the night before this survey was 2370 (65.1%). Lack of household access to ITN (AOR = 1.80; CI: 1.31, 2.47), having a family size of more than 10 members (AOR = 2.53; CI: 1.20, 4.24), having more than 10 rooms for sleeping in a household (AOR = 10.18; CI: 1.28, 81.00), having 2–4 screened windows (AOR = 1.49; CI: 1.00, 2.20), and having 8–10 screened windows (AOR = 3.57; CI: 1.25, 10.17) were significantly associated with increased odds of not sleeping in ITN the night before the survey. A total of 193 female sand flies were trapped from various locations within the study communities. Conclusions Factors associated with ITN non-use such as lack of household access to ITN should be incorporated into future efforts to improve ITN use. Species of sand flies and their potential vectorial role in the study communities should also be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Akuffo
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- University of Ghana Medical Centre, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Michael Wilson
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Bismark Sarfo
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Richard Adanu
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francis Anto
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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31
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Orish VN, Maalman RSE, Donkor OY, Ceruantes BYH, Osei E, Amu H, Appiah PK, Konlan KD, Mumuni H, Kim E, Kim S, Jung H, Ofori-Amoah J, Kofie P, Adjuik M, Alhassan RK, Donkor ES, Zottor FB, Kweku M, Amuna P, Kim SY, Gyapong JO. Assessing health-seeking behaviour and malaria prevention practices among communities in four districts of the Volta Region of Ghana. Malar J 2021; 20:450. [PMID: 34838027 PMCID: PMC8626995 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03986-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria is a preventable disease that causes huge morbidity and mortality in malaria-endemic areas, especially among children and pregnant women. The malaria control programme focuses on the prevention of mosquito bites using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and mosquito aerosol sprays and coils, as well as prevention of severe disease among those infected through prompt and adequate treatment. The success of the malaria control programme in Ghana is dependent on the malaria prevention practices of people in the community. Therefore, this study evaluated the malaria prevention practices of participants in four districts of the Volta Region of Ghana. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Ketu South, Nkwanta South, Hohoe Municipality and Ho West districts of the Volta Region of Ghana. Questionnaire were administered to adults who consented to each household visited. Questions were asked on the socio-demographics and malaria prevention practices of the households. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 23 with frequency distribution done for all the variables. Pearson chi-square was used to determine the significant association between socio-demographics and malaria prevention practices, and Multivariate nominal logistic regression analysis was used to model the relationship between dichotomous dependent variables (ITN ownership and usage) and independent variables. Results Out of the 2493 participants; 2234 (89.6%) owned ITN and 1528 (68.4%) used ITN a night before this study, 768 (30.8%) used mosquito aerosol spray and 368 (15%) used mosquito coil. More females significantly owned ITN than males (1293, 92.4%, p ≤ 0.001). Participants from Ketu South had 1.5 times higher odds of owning an ITN compared to Ho West whose odds are not different from Nkwanta South or Hohoe (AOR, 1.56 [95% 1.09–2.22]; p = 0.01). In terms of ITN usage, participants in Nkwanta South were less likely to use ITN compared to the other districts; AOR, 0.434 [95% CI 0.31–0.62, p < 0.001]. Also, of the 668 participants that had a fever within the past 3 days, 268 (40.1%) visited a patent medicine store and 156 (23.4%) visited health facilities. Conclusion There is high ownership of ITNs, but relatively low utilization among the community members. Education on malaria prevention practices should be intensified and continuous among the population of the Volta Region to ensure the success of malaria control in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verner N Orish
- School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | | | - Otchere Y Donkor
- School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | | | - Eric Osei
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana.,Department of Public Health Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hubert Amu
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Prince Kubi Appiah
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana.,Department of Public Health Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kennedy Diema Konlan
- Department of Public Health Graduate School, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Hadiru Mumuni
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Eunji Kim
- Korea Foundation for International Healthcare Ghana Office, Accra, Ghana
| | - Siwoo Kim
- Asian Institute for Bioethics and Health Law, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hajun Jung
- Asian Institute for Bioethics and Health Law, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jones Ofori-Amoah
- School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Philip Kofie
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Martin Adjuik
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Robert Kaba Alhassan
- Directorate of International Affairs, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | | | | | - Margaret Kweku
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Paul Amuna
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - So Yoo Kim
- Asian Institute for Bioethics and Health Law, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - John Owusu Gyapong
- Office of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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Monroe A, Moore S, Olapeju B, Merritt AP, Okumu F. Unlocking the human factor to increase effectiveness and sustainability of malaria vector control. Malar J 2021; 20:404. [PMID: 34656116 PMCID: PMC8520184 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03943-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Progress in the fight against malaria has stalled in recent years, highlighting the importance of new interventions and tailored approaches. A critical factor that must be considered across contexts and interventions is human behaviour. Main text Factors such as acceptance of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), ability and willingness to consistently use and appropriately care for ITNs and refraining from post-spray wall modifications can all impact the success of core vector control interventions. Understanding factors that can drive or inhibit these behaviours can contribute to improved social and behaviour change strategies and in turn, improved outcomes. Likewise, patterns of nighttime activities can reveal specific gaps in protection that cannot be filled by core interventions and inform development and deployment of complementary tools that meet people’s needs and preferences. There is an opportunity to increase use of approaches such as human-centred design to engage affected communities more actively in identifying and developing sustainable solutions that meet their needs and lifestyles. Integration of social and behavioural research with entomological and epidemiological evaluations will provide a more complete picture of malaria transmission dynamics and inform improved targeting of context-appropriate interventions. Finally, for gains to be maintained, interventions must be rooted within systems that support long-term success. This includes a movement toward more sustainable vector control solutions, increased decision-making and ownership of research, implementation, and strategy development at the country level, and inclusive approaches that ensure all men, women, boys, and girls are engaged as part of the solution. Conclusions No matter how efficacious, a tool will remain ineffective if communities do not engage with it or use it regularly. Entering the next decade in the fight against malaria there is a critical opportunity to elevate the role of social and behaviour change to increase the impact and sustainability of malaria control and elimination efforts. This includes removing social and structural barriers to use of existing tools at all levels, human-centred and inclusive design and implementation of new tools, and movement toward long-term solutions led by affected communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- April Monroe
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Sarah Moore
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | - Bolanle Olapeju
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Bawuah A, Ampaw S. Ownership and use of insecticide-treated nets under Ghana's National Malaria Control Program: What are the correlates? Trop Med Int Health 2021; 26:1593-1608. [PMID: 34637176 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Ghana's National Malaria Control Program distributes free insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) as a malaria control measure. Some households with the ITN do not use it, however. This paper explores the socioeconomic and demographic determinants of ITN ownership and use among Ghanaian families. METHODS Data on 5741 households were obtained from the 2019 Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey. The survey is a nationally representative survey that obtains data on malaria-related issues. Negative binomial and Tobit regressions were applied to achieve the study's objectives. RESULTS Residence (rural-urban), wealth, and administrative region emerged as the most important predictors of ITN ownership and usage in Ghana. The results favoured rural and non-Greater Accra residents. However, wealth had a contrasting association with ITN ownership and use. Whereas affluent households owned more ITNs than the extremely poor, the latter used them more. Also, age and household size were significant for ITN ownership. Both variables had a nonlinear (inverted U-shaped) relationship with ITN ownership. In contrast, the proportion of household members under 5 and the bed net-to-household size ratio were positive and statistically significant determinants of ITN use. CONCLUSION The study highlights the need to effectively target the poor, especially in rural areas, for ITNs under the NMCP instead of universal distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Bawuah
- School of Economics, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China
| | - Samuel Ampaw
- School of Economics, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China
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Annan RA, Gyimah LA, Apprey C, Asamoah-Boakye O, Aduku LNE, Azanu W, Luterodt HE, Edusei AK. Predictors of adverse birth outcomes among pregnant adolescents in Ashanti Region, Ghana. J Nutr Sci 2021; 10:e67. [PMID: 34527225 DOI: 10.1016/j.hnm.2021.200130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescent pregnancy is associated with adverse birth outcomes. However, the determinants of these outcomes are understudied. The present study sought to identify the predictors of adverse birth outcomes among pregnant adolescents in Ghana. In this prospective health centre-based study, 416 pregnant adolescents, aged 13-19 years old, were followed, and 270 birth outcomes were evaluated. We collected data on socio-demographic variables, eating behaviour, household hunger scale (HHS), lived poverty index (LPI) and compliance to antenatal interventions. The prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) and preterm births (PTB) were 15⋅2 and 12⋅5 %, respectively. Pregnant adolescents with no formal education (AOR 9⋅0; P = 0⋅004; 95 % CI 2⋅1, 39⋅8), those who experienced illness (AOR 3⋅0; P = 0⋅011; 95 % CI 1⋅3, 7⋅0), those who experienced hunger (OR 2⋅9; P = 0⋅010; 95 % CI 1⋅3, 6⋅5) and those with high LPI (OR 2⋅5; P = 0⋅014; 95 % CI 1⋅2, 5⋅3) presented increased odds of delivering preterm babies compared with those who have had secondary education, did not experience any illness, were not hungry or having low LPI, respectively. Pregnant adolescents who used insecticide-treated net (ITN) (AOR 0⋅4; P = 0⋅013; 95 % CI 0⋅2, 0⋅9) presented reduced odds LBW children; while those who experienced illness (AOR 2⋅7; P = 0⋅020; 95 % CI 1⋅2, 6⋅0), poorer pregnant adolescents (OR 2⋅5; P = 0⋅014; 95 % CI 1⋅1, 4⋅8) and those who experienced hunger (AOR 3⋅0; P = 0⋅028; 95 % CI 1⋅1, 8⋅1) presented increased odds of LBW children compared with those who used ITN, were not ill, were not poor or did not experience hunger. Adverse birth outcomes were associated with ANC compliance and socioeconomic factors of the pregnant adolescents. Hence, strengthening antenatal uptake and compliance by pregnant adolescents, promoting their livelihood and socioeconomic status, and interventions to prevent teenage pregnancies are strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reginald Adjetey Annan
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Linda Afriyie Gyimah
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Charles Apprey
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Odeafo Asamoah-Boakye
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Linda Nana Esi Aduku
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Wisdom Azanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Allied Health Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Herman E Luterodt
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Anthony K Edusei
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Annan RA, Gyimah LA, Apprey C, Asamoah-Boakye O, Aduku LNE, Azanu W, Luterodt HE, Edusei AK. Predictors of adverse birth outcomes among pregnant adolescents in Ashanti Region, Ghana. J Nutr Sci 2021; 10:e67. [PMID: 34527225 PMCID: PMC8411264 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2021.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent pregnancy is associated with adverse birth outcomes. However, the determinants of these outcomes are understudied. The present study sought to identify the predictors of adverse birth outcomes among pregnant adolescents in Ghana. In this prospective health centre-based study, 416 pregnant adolescents, aged 13-19 years old, were followed, and 270 birth outcomes were evaluated. We collected data on socio-demographic variables, eating behaviour, household hunger scale (HHS), lived poverty index (LPI) and compliance to antenatal interventions. The prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) and preterm births (PTB) were 15⋅2 and 12⋅5 %, respectively. Pregnant adolescents with no formal education (AOR 9⋅0; P = 0⋅004; 95 % CI 2⋅1, 39⋅8), those who experienced illness (AOR 3⋅0; P = 0⋅011; 95 % CI 1⋅3, 7⋅0), those who experienced hunger (OR 2⋅9; P = 0⋅010; 95 % CI 1⋅3, 6⋅5) and those with high LPI (OR 2⋅5; P = 0⋅014; 95 % CI 1⋅2, 5⋅3) presented increased odds of delivering preterm babies compared with those who have had secondary education, did not experience any illness, were not hungry or having low LPI, respectively. Pregnant adolescents who used insecticide-treated net (ITN) (AOR 0⋅4; P = 0⋅013; 95 % CI 0⋅2, 0⋅9) presented reduced odds LBW children; while those who experienced illness (AOR 2⋅7; P = 0⋅020; 95 % CI 1⋅2, 6⋅0), poorer pregnant adolescents (OR 2⋅5; P = 0⋅014; 95 % CI 1⋅1, 4⋅8) and those who experienced hunger (AOR 3⋅0; P = 0⋅028; 95 % CI 1⋅1, 8⋅1) presented increased odds of LBW children compared with those who used ITN, were not ill, were not poor or did not experience hunger. Adverse birth outcomes were associated with ANC compliance and socioeconomic factors of the pregnant adolescents. Hence, strengthening antenatal uptake and compliance by pregnant adolescents, promoting their livelihood and socioeconomic status, and interventions to prevent teenage pregnancies are strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reginald Adjetey Annan
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Linda Afriyie Gyimah
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Charles Apprey
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Odeafo Asamoah-Boakye
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Linda Nana Esi Aduku
- Human Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Wisdom Azanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Allied Health Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Herman E. Luterodt
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Anthony K. Edusei
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Opoku R, Amoah PA, Nyamekye KA. Examining the incentives and disincentives in the maintenance of Insecticide-Treated Nets among householders in Ghana. Int J Health Plann Manage 2021; 36:2263-2276. [PMID: 34363240 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3294] [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: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored the factors that affect the incentive to care for Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) among householders in the Shai-Osudoku District of Ghana. METHODS The study employed a descriptive qualitative design. Four in-depth interviews (IDIs) and four focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to gather the data from 38 participants. A thematic technique was used to analyse the data. FINDINGS Householders were aware of the importance and use of ITNs. The factors underlying the motivation of householders to care for ITNs included their need to stay healthy; inadequate funds to acquire new ITNs and pay for healthcare cost; and their knowledge of the use and efficacy of ITNs. It was also found that obtaining the nets at no cost; limited time available to mend the ITNs; and limited knowledge on how to mend the ITNs disincentivised householders from effectively caring for the nets. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to rethink current ITN intervention programmes in ways that will improve the contents of public education messages and strengthen monitoring frameworks to ensure that householders take optimum care of their nets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Opoku
- PMI VectorLink Project, Population Services International (PSI), Accra, Ghana
| | - Padmore Adusei Amoah
- School of Graduate Studies, Asia Pacific Institute of Ageing Studies, Institute of Policy Studies, Lingnan University, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
| | - Kingsley Atta Nyamekye
- Department of Geographical Sciences and Planning- School of Geo-Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
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Ekusai-Sebatta D, Arinaitwe E, Mpimbaza A, Nankabirwa JI, Drakeley C, Rosenthal PJ, Staedke SG, Muyinda H. Challenges and opportunities for use of long-lasting insecticidal nets to prevent malaria during overnight travel in Uganda: a qualitative study. Malar J 2021; 20:283. [PMID: 34174892 PMCID: PMC8235645 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03811-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Travel is a well-recognized risk factor for malaria. Within sub-Saharan Africa, travellers from areas of lower to higher transmission intensity are potentially at high risk of malaria. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are the primary tool for prevention of malaria, and their widespread use has contributed to substantial reductions in malaria burden. However, travellers often fail to use LLINs. To further explore the challenges and opportunities of using LLINs, travellers were interviewed in Uganda. METHODS In August and September 2019, 20 participants attending outpatient clinics at Naguru General Hospital in Kampala with a history of travel out of Kampala within the previous 60 days were purposively selected. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed thematically using NVivo 12. RESULTS Of the 20 participants, 13 were male. Thirteen of the 20 participants tested positive for malaria by microscopy, and 5 reported using of LLINs during travel. The main reasons for travel were to attend social events (weddings, funerals, overnight prayers) and for work. travellers who attended social events reported using LLINs less commonly than those who travelled for work. Challenges to using LLINs during travel included: (1) limited access to LLINs; (2) challenges in planning ahead of travel; (3) lack of space or ability to hang LLINs while travelling; (4) impression that LLINs in lodging places were unhygienic; (5) cultural beliefs discouraging use of LLINs during social events; (6) participation in overnight ceremonies; and (7) doubts about efficacy of LLINs. Positive factors influencing use of LLINs during travel included knowledge regarding malaria prevention and good affordability and availability of LLINs. CONCLUSIONS Despite good traveller knowledge regarding malaria control measures, use of LLINs was limited. Use of LLINs in the prevention of malaria among travellers from low to high transmission settings needs to be prioritized. This calls for increased behaviour change oriented communication to improve traveller preparedness and consideration of use of repellents in situations where LLINs may not be feasible. The Uganda Ministry of Health and Malaria Control Division should use educational messages to increase awareness about the risks of getting malaria during overnight travel through the media. Truck drivers should be sensitized through their companies to use the available space at the back of the trucks for hanging nets and consider using pop-up nets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emmanuel Arinaitwe
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Arthur Mpimbaza
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda.,Child Health & Development Centre, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joaniter I Nankabirwa
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Herbert Muyinda
- Child Health & Development Centre, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Njatosoa AF, Mattern C, Pourette D, Kesteman T, Rakotomanana E, Rahaivondrafahitra B, Andriamananjara M, Harimanana A, Razafindrakoto J, Raboanary E, Andrianasolo A, Rogier C. Family, social and cultural determinants of long-lasting insecticidal net (LLIN) use in Madagascar: secondary analysis of three qualitative studies focused on children aged 5-15 years. Malar J 2021; 20:168. [PMID: 33771162 PMCID: PMC7995690 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03705-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although it is accepted that long-lasting insecticidal net (LLIN) use is an effective means to prevent malaria, children aged 5 to 15 years do not appear to be sufficiently protected in Madagascar; the malaria prevalence is highest in this age group. The purpose of this research is to summarize recent qualitative studies describing LLIN use among the Malagasy people with a focus on children aged 5–15 years. Methods Qualitative data from three studies on malaria conducted between 2012 and 2016 in 10 districts of Madagascar were analysed. These studies cover all malaria epidemiological profiles and 10 of the 18 existing ethnic groups in Madagascar. A thematic analysis was conducted on the collected data from semi-structured interviews, direct observation data, and informal interviews. Results A total of 192 semi-structured interviews were conducted. LLINs are generally perceived positively because they protect the health and well-being of users. However, regional representations of mosquito nets may contribute to LLIN lower use by children over 5 years of age including the association between married status and LLIN use, which leads to the refusal of unmarried young men to sleep under LLINs; the custom of covering the dead with a mosquito net, which leads to fear of LLIN use; and taboos governing sleeping spaces for siblings of opposite sexes, which leads to LLIN shortages in households. Children under 5 years of age are known to be the most vulnerable age group for acquiring malaria and, therefore, are prioritized for LLIN use when there are limited supplies in households. In contrast, children over 5 years of age, who are perceived to be at less risk for malaria, often sleep without LLINs. Conclusions Perceptions, social practices and regional beliefs regarding LLINs and vulnerability to malaria contribute to the nonuse of LLINs among children over 5 years of age in Madagascar. Modifying LLIN policies to account for these factors may increase LLIN use in this age group and reduce disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammy Fiadanana Njatosoa
- Groupe Santé & Sciences Sociales, Unité Épidémiologie Et de Recherche Clinique, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
| | - Chiarella Mattern
- Groupe Santé & Sciences Sociales, Unité Épidémiologie Et de Recherche Clinique, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar.,IRD, Ceped (Institut de Recherche Pour Le Développement, Université de Paris, INSERM), Paris, France
| | - Dolorès Pourette
- IRD, Ceped (Institut de Recherche Pour Le Développement, Université de Paris, INSERM), Paris, France
| | - Thomas Kesteman
- Unité de Recherche Sur Le Paludisme, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar.,Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Elliot Rakotomanana
- Groupe Santé & Sciences Sociales, Unité Épidémiologie Et de Recherche Clinique, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Mauricette Andriamananjara
- Programme National de Lutte Contre Le Paludisme, Ministère de La Santé Publique, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Aina Harimanana
- Unité Épidémiologie Et de Recherche Clinique, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Emma Raboanary
- Groupe Santé & Sciences Sociales, Unité Épidémiologie Et de Recherche Clinique, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Andry Andrianasolo
- Groupe Santé & Sciences Sociales, Unité Épidémiologie Et de Recherche Clinique, Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar.,Institut International Des Sciences Sociales, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Christophe Rogier
- Institut Pasteur de Madagascar, Antananarivo, Madagascar.,Primum Vitare, Paris, France
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Monroe A, Moore S, Okumu F, Kiware S, Lobo NF, Koenker H, Sherrard-Smith E, Gimnig J, Killeen GF. Methods and indicators for measuring patterns of human exposure to malaria vectors. Malar J 2020; 19:207. [PMID: 32546166 PMCID: PMC7296719 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03271-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective targeting and evaluation of interventions that protect against adult malaria vectors requires an understanding of how gaps in personal protection arise. An improved understanding of human and mosquito behaviour, and how they overlap in time and space, is critical to estimating the impact of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and determining when and where supplemental personal protection tools are needed. Methods for weighting estimates of human exposure to biting Anopheles mosquitoes according to where people spend their time were first developed over half a century ago. However, crude indoor and outdoor biting rates are still commonly interpreted as indicative of human-vector contact patterns without any adjustment for human behaviour or the personal protection effects of ITNs. MAIN TEXT A small number of human behavioural variables capturing the distribution of human populations indoors and outdoors, whether they are awake or asleep, and if and when they use an ITN over the course of the night, can enable a more accurate representation of human biting exposure patterns. However, to date no clear guidance is available on what data should be collected, what indicators should be reported, or how they should be calculated. This article presents an integrated perspective on relevant indicators of human-vector interactions, the critical entomological and human behavioural data elements required to quantify human-vector interactions, and recommendations for collecting and analysing such data. CONCLUSIONS If collected and used consistently, this information can contribute to an improved understanding of how malaria transmission persists in the context of current intervention tools, how exposure patterns may change as new vector control tools are introduced, and the potential impact and limitations of these tools. This article is intended to consolidate understanding around work on this topic to date and provide a consistent framework for building upon it. Additional work is needed to address remaining questions, including further development and validation of methods for entomological and human behavioural data collection and analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- April Monroe
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, PMI VectorWorks Project, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Sarah Moore
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | - Fredros Okumu
- Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Tanzania
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Republic of South Africa
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Samson Kiware
- Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | - Neil F Lobo
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Hannah Koenker
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, PMI VectorWorks Project, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ellie Sherrard-Smith
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - John Gimnig
- Division of Parasitic Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gerry F Killeen
- Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Tanzania
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences and Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Republic of Ireland
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