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Sentinel surveillance of Lymphatic filariasis, Schistosomiasis, Soil transmitted helminths and Malaria in rural southern Malawi
Background: Baseline prevalence and knowledge, attitude and perception (KAP) survey is a prerequisite for mass drug administration for the control of Lymphatic filariasis (LF) and other neglected tropical diseases. Methods: In preparation for the first mass drug administration for LF elimination, a...
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Published in: | Malawi medical journal 2013-11, Vol.22 (1) |
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Main Authors: | , , , , |
Format: | Article |
Language: | English |
Online Access: | Get full text |
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Summary: | Background: Baseline prevalence and knowledge, attitude and perception
(KAP) survey is a prerequisite for mass drug administration for the
control of Lymphatic filariasis (LF) and other neglected tropical
diseases. Methods: In preparation for the first mass drug
administration for LF elimination, a baseline survey was conducted in
six sentinel sites in the southern Malawi, amongst participants aged
five years or more. A standard questionnaire was used to obtain data on
socio-demographic factors, ownership and use of bed nets, previous
ingestion of ivermectin and KAP toward hydrocele and lymphoedema.
Finger prick blood samples were collected from 22:00 to 01:00 hours for
LF microscopy, malaria and haemoglobin examination. Stool and urine
samples were collected for internal helminths and schistosomiasis
respectively. Results: A total of 1, 903 participants were enrolled.
Knowledge on the cause of hydrocele and lymphoedema was low in all the
sentinel sites (16%-42%, 10%-24% (respectively). Sexual intercourse
with a menstruating woman, bad weather and HIV/AIDS were perceived
causes of hydrocele. Microfilaraemia prevalence was 1.5% and varied
little between sentinel sites (1.0%-2.1%). Childhood urinary
schistosomiasis was common in Phalombe (94.9%) and Blantyre (26.9%).
Conclusion Integrated approach and understanding of the community KAP
is vital or successful implementation of LF elimination programme. |
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ISSN: | 1995-7262 |