14/11/2023Journal articleMajor gaps in childhood pneumonia research priorities remainFunders of infectious disease research must turn their focus to identified pneumonia research priorities in order to work towards the Sustainable Development Goal for child survival.14/11/2023
Funders of infectious disease research must turn their focus to identified pneumonia research priorities in order to work towards the Sustainable Development Goal for child survival.
01/07/2022Journal articleDigital molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases in sub-Saharan AfricaThe Digital Diagnostics for Africa Network have identified new technologies with the potential to bring the laboratory to the patient, wherever they may be.01/07/2022
The Digital Diagnostics for Africa Network have identified new technologies with the potential to bring the laboratory to the patient, wherever they may be.
12/02/2022Journal articleThe impact of the private sector co-payment mechanism on the private market for ACT in NigeriaSupply of rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) medicines needs to be synchronised to prevent high levels of ACT misuse. 12/02/2022
Supply of rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) medicines needs to be synchronised to prevent high levels of ACT misuse.
04/12/2021Journal articleDeterminants of malaria testing at health facilities: The case of UgandaThese findings underscore the need for malaria control programmes to provide regular supportive supervision to health facilities and training in rapid diagnostic testing.04/12/2021
These findings underscore the need for malaria control programmes to provide regular supportive supervision to health facilities and training in rapid diagnostic testing.
22/07/2021Journal articleThe role of adaptive surveillance as a core intervention to achieve malaria eliminationA strong surveillance system is critical to implementing an efficient and effective malaria programme to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination.22/07/2021
A strong surveillance system is critical to implementing an efficient and effective malaria programme to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination.
13/05/2021Journal articleNavigating the COVID-19 crisis to sustain community-based malaria interventions in CambodiaWe were able to provide continued support to mobile malaria workers and communities by conducting a COVID-19 rapid risk assessment and mitigation plan.13/05/2021
We were able to provide continued support to mobile malaria workers and communities by conducting a COVID-19 rapid risk assessment and mitigation plan.
27/04/2021Journal articleResidual malaria transmission in select countries of Asia-Pacific region: Old wine in a new barrelMalaria persists with a disproportionate impact in the Asia-Pacific region. This systematic review looks at when and where residual malaria transmission is occurring. 27/04/2021
Malaria persists with a disproportionate impact in the Asia-Pacific region. This systematic review looks at when and where residual malaria transmission is occurring.
19/01/2021Journal articleAssessment of COVID-19 information overload among the general publicThis assessment sought to measure the level of COVID-19 information overload and assess the sociodemographic characteristics among the public.19/01/2021
This assessment sought to measure the level of COVID-19 information overload and assess the sociodemographic characteristics among the public.
09/01/2021Journal articleNew assessment of Anopheles vector species identification using MALDI-TOF MSTo determine the body part of Anopheles mosquitoes best suited for the identification of field specimens, a mass spectral library was generated. 09/01/2021
To determine the body part of Anopheles mosquitoes best suited for the identification of field specimens, a mass spectral library was generated.
26/05/2020Journal articleProtecting children in low-income and middle-income countries from COVID-19Drawing on our shared child pneumonia experience globally, we highlight the potential impacts of COVID-19 on children and propose a collective response.26/05/2020
Drawing on our shared child pneumonia experience globally, we highlight the potential impacts of COVID-19 on children and propose a collective response.
30/03/2020Journal articleAutomated respiratory rate counter to assess children for symptoms of pneumoniaThis is the first time the usability and acceptability of automated respiratory rate counters in low-resource settings have been evaluated.30/03/2020
This is the first time the usability and acceptability of automated respiratory rate counters in low-resource settings have been evaluated.
10/03/2019Journal articleDengue situation in Bangladesh: An epidemiological shift in terms of morbidity and mortalityIn this study, climatic changes and rapid unplanned urbanisation were strong predictors of an ecological imbalance that led to increased dengue cases.10/03/2019
In this study, climatic changes and rapid unplanned urbanisation were strong predictors of an ecological imbalance that led to increased dengue cases.
12/11/2018Journal articleComparative efficacy of artemether-lumefantrine and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ugandan childrenIn Uganda, artemether-lumefantrine (AL) and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHA-PQ) showed excellent treatment efficacy for uncomplicated malaria in prior trials. Because resistance to artemisinins and piperaquine is increasing in southeast Asia and the…12/11/2018
In Uganda, artemether-lumefantrine (AL) and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHA-PQ) showed excellent treatment efficacy for uncomplicated malaria in prior trials. Because resistance to artemisinins and piperaquine is increasing in southeast Asia and the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum polymorphisms associated with resistance has changed,…
06/11/2018Journal articleImmediate assessment of performance of medical laboratory scientists following a 10-day malaria microscopy training programme in Nigeria
Background
Rapid and precise diagnosis of malaria is an essential element in effective case management and control of malaria. Malaria microscopy is used as the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, however…06/11/2018
Background
Rapid and precise diagnosis of malaria is an essential element in effective case management and control of malaria. Malaria microscopy is used as the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, however results remain poor as positivity rate in Nigeria is consistently…
26/10/2018Journal articleEffect of environmental variables and kdr resistance genotype on survival probability and infection rates in Anopheles gambiae (s.s)BACKGROUND:
Environmental factors, especially ambient temperature and relative humidity affect both mosquitoes and malaria parasites. The early part of sporogony is most sensitive and is affected by high temperatures and temperature…26/10/2018
BACKGROUND:
Environmental factors, especially ambient temperature and relative humidity affect both mosquitoes and malaria parasites. The early part of sporogony is most sensitive and is affected by high temperatures and temperature fluctuation immediately following ingestion of an infectious blood meal. The…
10/10/2018Journal articleDigital Technologies for Health Workforce Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping ReviewThe collection of journal articles, systematic reviews, and reports published over the last decade that attest to the potential of digital technologies to achieve health workforce improvements across all aspects…10/10/2018
The collection of journal articles, systematic reviews, and reports published over the last decade that attest to the potential of digital technologies to achieve health workforce improvements across all aspects of the health system is vast. As a capacity-building mechanism,…
17/09/2018Journal articleManagement and Follow-up Practices of Children with Unclassified Fever in Rural Ethiopia: Experiences of Health Extension Workers and CaregiversDifferent health-care management guidelines by the World Health Organization exist to help health workers in resource-limited settings treat patients. However, for children with unclassified fever and no danger signs, management…17/09/2018
Different health-care management guidelines by the World Health Organization exist to help health workers in resource-limited settings treat patients. However, for children with unclassified fever and no danger signs, management guidelines are less clear and follow-up recommendations differ. Both a…
17/08/2018Journal articleHuman and Simian Malaria in the Greater Mekong Subregion and Challenges for EliminationIn recent years malaria initiatives have increasingly shifted from malaria control to a focus on achieving malaria elimination in the Southeast Asia region. However, this region experiences unique challenges in…17/08/2018
In recent years malaria initiatives have increasingly shifted from malaria control to a focus on achieving malaria elimination in the Southeast Asia region. However, this region experiences unique challenges in this transition due to its distinctive malariaecosystem (mainly related to…
29/06/2018Journal articleDesign, Implementation, and Evaluation of a School Insecticide-Treated Net Distribution Program in Cross River State, NigeriaBackground:
In 2013, the World Health Organization recommended distribution through schools, health facilities, community health workers, and mass campaigns to maintain coverage with insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). We piloted school distribution in…29/06/2018
Background:
In 2013, the World Health Organization recommended distribution through schools, health facilities, community health workers, and mass campaigns to maintain coverage with insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). We piloted school distribution in 3 local government areas (LGAs) of Cross River State, Nigeria.
Methods:
From…
22/03/2018Journal articleImpact of a 15-month multi-channel continuous distribution pilot on ITN ownership and access in Eastern Region, GhanaBackground:
Insecticide-treated nets are a key intervention for malaria prevention. While mass distribution can rapidly scale up ITN coverage, multiple channels may be needed to sustain high levels of ITN access…22/03/2018
Background:
Insecticide-treated nets are a key intervention for malaria prevention. While mass distribution can rapidly scale up ITN coverage, multiple channels may be needed to sustain high levels of ITN access and ownership. In Ghana's Eastern Region, a continuous ITN distribution…
14/03/2018Journal articleResistance of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Populations to Deltamethrin, Permethrin, and Temephos in CambodiaBackground
Dengue fever is a major public health issue in Cambodia, with over 185,000 cases estimated annually. Transmission occurs primarily through the Aedis aegypti vector, which favours environments where water storage…14/03/2018
Background
Dengue fever is a major public health issue in Cambodia, with over 185,000 cases estimated annually. Transmission occurs primarily through the Aedis aegypti vector, which favours environments where water storage is abundant and solid waste disposal is deficient. This vector…
16/02/2018Journal articleDengue knowledge, attitudes and practices and their impact on community-based vector control in rural CambodiaBackgroundGlobally there are an estimated 390 million dengue infections per year, of which 96 million are clinically apparent. In Cambodia, estimates suggest as many as 185,850 cases annually. The World…16/02/2018
BackgroundGlobally there are an estimated 390 million dengue infections per year, of which 96 million are clinically apparent. In Cambodia, estimates suggest as many as 185,850 cases annually. The World Health Organization global strategy for dengue prevention aims to reduce…
06/02/2018Journal articlePrivate sector malaria RDT initiative in Nigeria: lessons from an end-of-project stakeholder engagement meetingBackgroundThe malaria rapid diagnosis testing (RDT) landscape is rapidly evolving in health care delivery in Nigeria with many stakeholders playing or having potential for critical roles. A recent UNITAID grant…06/02/2018
BackgroundThe malaria rapid diagnosis testing (RDT) landscape is rapidly evolving in health care delivery in Nigeria with many stakeholders playing or having potential for critical roles. A recent UNITAID grant supported a pilot project on the deployment of quality-assured RDTs…
06/01/2018Journal articleImmediate assessment of performance of medical laboratory scientists following a 10-day malaria microscopy training programme in Nigeria
Background
Rapid and precise diagnosis of malaria is an essential element in effective case management and control of malaria. Malaria microscopy is used as the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, however,…06/01/2018
Background
Rapid and precise diagnosis of malaria is an essential element in effective case management and control of malaria. Malaria microscopy is used as the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, however, results remain poor as positivity rate in Nigeria is consistently…
28/11/2017Journal articleIntegrated community case management in a peri-urban setting: A qualitative evaluation in Wakiso District, UgandaBackground
Integrated community case management (iCCM) strategies aim to reach poor communities by providing timely access to treatment for malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea for children under 5 years of age.…28/11/2017
Background
Integrated community case management (iCCM) strategies aim to reach poor communities by providing timely access to treatment for malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea for children under 5 years of age. Community health workers, known as Village Health Teams (VHTs) in…
23/11/2017Journal articleSpatiotemporal distribution and population at risk of soil-transmitted helminth infections following an eight-year school-based deworming programme in Burundi, 2007-2014.
Background
Investigating the effect of successive annual deworming rounds on the spatiotemporal distribution of infection prevalence and numbers at risk for soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) can help identify communities nearing elimination and…23/11/2017
Background
Investigating the effect of successive annual deworming rounds on the spatiotemporal distribution of infection prevalence and numbers at risk for soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) can help identify communities nearing elimination and those needing further interventions. In this study, we aim to…
09/10/2017Journal articleNeglected tropical diseases: Exploring long-term practical approaches to achieve sustainable disease elimination and beyondThis paper identifies two major priorities in the fight against NTDs: strengthening the capacity of the primary health care health system in correctly diagnosing and managing such diseases, and establishing an effective…09/10/2017
This paper identifies two major priorities in the fight against NTDs: strengthening the capacity of the primary health care health system in correctly diagnosing and managing such diseases, and establishing an effective disease surveillance process.
17/08/2017Journal articleEvaluation of a continuous community-based insecticide-treated nets distribution pilot in Lainya County, South Sudan 2012–2013
Background
Continuous distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) has now been accepted as one way of sustaining ITN universal coverage. Community-based channels offer an interesting means of delivering ITNs to households to…17/08/2017
Background
Continuous distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) has now been accepted as one way of sustaining ITN universal coverage. Community-based channels offer an interesting means of delivering ITNs to households to sustain universal ITN coverage. The objective of this study was…
10/08/2017Journal articleEvaluation of community-based continuous distribution of long lasting insecticide-treated nets in Toamasina II District, Madagascar
Background
Continuous distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) is thought to be an effective mechanism to maintain ITN ownership and access between or in the absence of mass campaigns, but evidence is…10/08/2017
Background
Continuous distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) is thought to be an effective mechanism to maintain ITN ownership and access between or in the absence of mass campaigns, but evidence is limited. A community-based ITN distribution pilot was implemented and evaluated…
06/07/2017Journal articleMass drug administration in Central Equatoria, South Sudan: Results and suggestions for future distributionsBackground
South Sudan has rolled out a neglected tropical disease programme, which envisaged deworming campaigns in states endemic for soil transmitted helminth infections and schistosomiasis.
Methods
In 2016, two deworming campaigns targeting school-age…06/07/2017
Background
South Sudan has rolled out a neglected tropical disease programme, which envisaged deworming campaigns in states endemic for soil transmitted helminth infections and schistosomiasis.
Methods
In 2016, two deworming campaigns targeting school-age children were performed in Central Equatoria. Distribution sites were set…
14/06/2017Journal articleExperiences from developing and upgrading a web-based surveillance system for malaria elimination in CambodiaAbstract
Strengthening the surveillance component is key toward achieving country-wide malaria elimination in Cambodia. A web-based upgraded malaria information system (MIS) was deemed to essentially act as the central component for…14/06/2017
Abstract
Strengthening the surveillance component is key toward achieving country-wide malaria elimination in Cambodia. A web-based upgraded malaria information system (MIS) was deemed to essentially act as the central component for surveillance strengthening. New functionality (eg, data visualization) and operational (eg,…
07/06/2017Journal articleCommunity dialogues for child health: Results from a qualitative process evaluation in three countriesBackground
Across the developing world, countries are increasingly adop ting the integrated community casemanagement of childhood illnesses (iCCM) strategy in efforts to reduce child mortality. This intervention’s effectivenessis dependent on community…07/06/2017
Background
Across the developing world, countries are increasingly adop ting the integrated community casemanagement of childhood illnesses (iCCM) strategy in efforts to reduce child mortality. This intervention’s effectivenessis dependent on community adop tion and changes in care-seeking practices. We assessed the…
09/05/2017Journal articleChildhood pneumonia diagnostics: Community health workers’ and national stakeholders’ differing perspectives of new and existing aidsBackground
Pneumonia heavily contributes to global under-five mortality. Many countries use community case management to detect and treat childhood pneumonia. Community health workers (CHWs) have limited tools to help them assess…09/05/2017
Background
Pneumonia heavily contributes to global under-five mortality. Many countries use community case management to detect and treat childhood pneumonia. Community health workers (CHWs) have limited tools to help them assess signs of pneumonia. New respiratory rate (RR) counting devices and…
20/04/2017Journal articleInsecticide resistance patterns in Uganda and the effect of indoor residual spraying with bendiocarb on kdr L1014S frequencies in Anopheles gambiae s.s.Background
Resistance of malaria vectors to pyrethroid insecticides has been attributed to selection pressure from long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and the use of chemicals in agriculture. The…20/04/2017
Background
Resistance of malaria vectors to pyrethroid insecticides has been attributed to selection pressure from long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and the use of chemicals in agriculture. The use of different classes of insecticides in combination or by…
20/04/2017Journal articleQuality issues with malaria rapid diagnostic test accessories and buffer packaging: Findings from a five-country private sector project in AfricaBackground:
Use of antigen-detecting malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) has increased exponentially over the last decade. WHO's Global Malaria Programme, FIND, and other collaborators have established a quality assurance scheme to…20/04/2017
Background:
Use of antigen-detecting malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) has increased exponentially over the last decade. WHO's Global Malaria Programme, FIND, and other collaborators have established a quality assurance scheme to guide product selection, lot verification, transport, storage, and training procedures.…
17/04/2017Journal articleTravel and the emergence of high-level drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum in southwest Uganda: Results from a population-based studyBackground
The I164L mutation on the dhfr gene confers high level resistance to sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (SP) but it is rare in Africa except in a cluster of reports where prevalence >10%…17/04/2017
Background
The I164L mutation on the dhfr gene confers high level resistance to sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (SP) but it is rare in Africa except in a cluster of reports where prevalence >10% in highland areas of southwest Uganda and eastern Rwanda. The…
09/11/2016Journal articlePneumococcal carriage in children under five years in Uganda: Will present pneumococcal conjugate vaccines be appropriate?Background
Pneumonia is the major cause of death in children globally, with more than 900,000 deaths annually in children under five years of age. Streptococcus pneumoniae causes most deaths, most often…09/11/2016
Background
Pneumonia is the major cause of death in children globally, with more than 900,000 deaths annually in children under five years of age. Streptococcus pneumoniae causes most deaths, most often in the form of community acquired pneumonia. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines…
04/11/2016Journal articleAssessing demand-side barriers to uptake of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy: A qualitative study in two regions of UgandaBackground
To prevent malaria infection during pregnancy in endemic areas in Africa, the World Health Organization recommends the administration of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) as part of the focused…04/11/2016
Background
To prevent malaria infection during pregnancy in endemic areas in Africa, the World Health Organization recommends the administration of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) as part of the focused antenatal care package. However, IPTp uptake in most countries remains…
27/10/2016Journal articleAn optimised age-based dosing regimen for single low-dose primaquine for blocking malaria transmission in CambodiaBackground
In 2012, the World Health Organization recommended the addition of single low-dose primaquine (SLDPQ, 0.25 mg base/kg body weight) to artemisinin combination therapies to block the transmission of Plasmodium falciparum…27/10/2016
Background
In 2012, the World Health Organization recommended the addition of single low-dose primaquine (SLDPQ, 0.25 mg base/kg body weight) to artemisinin combination therapies to block the transmission of Plasmodium falciparum without testing for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. The targeted group was…
18/10/2016Journal articleHealth worker and policy-maker perspectives on use of intramuscular artesunate for pre-referral and definitive treatment of severe malaria at health posts in EthiopiaBackground
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends injectable artesunate given either intravenously or by the intramuscular route for definitive treatment for severe malaria and recommends a single intramuscular dose of…18/10/2016
Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends injectable artesunate given either intravenously or by the intramuscular route for definitive treatment for severe malaria and recommends a single intramuscular dose of intramuscular artesunate or intramuscular artemether or intramuscular quinine, in that…
05/10/2016Journal articlePlasmodium vivax Malaria in CambodiaBackground
The Cambodian National Strategic Plan for Elimination of Malaria aims to move step by step toward elimination of malaria across Cambodia with an initial focus on Plasmodium falciparum malaria before…05/10/2016
Background
The Cambodian National Strategic Plan for Elimination of Malaria aims to move step by step toward elimination of malaria across Cambodia with an initial focus on Plasmodium falciparum malaria before achieving elimination of all forms of malaria, including Plasmodium vivax…
29/09/2016Journal articleMolecular determinants of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance in Plasmodium falciparum in Nigeria and the regional emergence of dhps 431VBackground
There are few published reports of mutations in dihydropteroate synthetase (dhps) and dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) genes in P. falciparum populations in Nigeria, but one previous study has recorded a novel…29/09/2016
Background
There are few published reports of mutations in dihydropteroate synthetase (dhps) and dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) genes in P. falciparum populations in Nigeria, but one previous study has recorded a novel dhps mutation at codon 431 among infections imported to the…
15/09/2016Journal articleThe use of formative research to inform the design of a seasonal malaria chemoprevention intervention in northern NigeriaBackground
Experience of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) is growing in the Sahel sub-region of Africa, though there remains insufficient evidence to recommend a standard deployment strategy. In 2012, a project was…15/09/2016
Background
Experience of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) is growing in the Sahel sub-region of Africa, though there remains insufficient evidence to recommend a standard deployment strategy. In 2012, a project was initiated in Katsina state, northern Nigeria, to design an appropriate…
06/09/2016Journal articleNational malaria prevalence in Cambodia: Microscopy versus polymerase chain reaction estimatesAbstract
Accurate information regarding malaria prevalence at national level is required to design and assess malaria control/elimination efforts. Although many comparisons of microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods have been…06/09/2016
Abstract
Accurate information regarding malaria prevalence at national level is required to design and assess malaria control/elimination efforts. Although many comparisons of microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods have been conducted, there is little published literature covering such comparisons in…
27/08/2016Journal articleRational use of antibiotics by community health workers and caregivers for children with suspected pneumonia in Zambia: A cross-sectional mixed methods studyBackground
Antibiotic resistance is an issue of growing global concern. One key strategy to minimise further development of resistance is the rational use of antibiotics, by providers and patients alike. Through…27/08/2016
Background
Antibiotic resistance is an issue of growing global concern. One key strategy to minimise further development of resistance is the rational use of antibiotics, by providers and patients alike. Through integrated community case management (iCCM), children diagnosed with suspected pneumonia…
04/07/2016Journal articleAssessing supply-side barriers to uptake of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy: A qualitative study and document and record review in two regions of UgandaBackground
Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) with sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (SP), provided as part of routine antenatal care (ANC), is one of three malaria-in-pregnancy prevention and control mechanisms recommended by the World…04/07/2016
Background
Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) with sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (SP), provided as part of routine antenatal care (ANC), is one of three malaria-in-pregnancy prevention and control mechanisms recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, despite high ANC attendance and increased…
18/04/2016Journal articleReactive case-detection of malaria in Pailin province, western Cambodia: Lessons from a year-long evaluation in a pre-elimination setting
Background
As momentum towards malaria elimination grows, strategies are being developed for scale-up in elimination settings. One prominent strategy, reactive case detection (RACD), involves screening and treating individuals living in close…18/04/2016
Background
As momentum towards malaria elimination grows, strategies are being developed for scale-up in elimination settings. One prominent strategy, reactive case detection (RACD), involves screening and treating individuals living in close proximity to passively detected, or “index” cases. This study aims…
31/03/2016Journal articleAssessing the quality of care for pneumonia in integrated community case management: A cross-sectional mixed methods studyBackground
Pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of mortality in children under five worldwide. Community-level interventions, such as integrated community case management, have great potential to reduce the burden of pneumonia,…31/03/2016
Background
Pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of mortality in children under five worldwide. Community-level interventions, such as integrated community case management, have great potential to reduce the burden of pneumonia, as well as other diseases, especially in remote populations. However,…
31/03/2016Journal articleHave you heard of schistosomiasis? Knowledge, attitudes and practices in Nampula province, MozambiqueBackground
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease which affects almost 300 million people worldwide each year. It is highly endemic in Mozambique. Prevention and control of schistosomiasis relies mainly on mass drug…31/03/2016
Background
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease which affects almost 300 million people worldwide each year. It is highly endemic in Mozambique. Prevention and control of schistosomiasis relies mainly on mass drug administration (MDA), as well as adoption of basic sanitation practices.…
26/02/2016Journal articleExposure to deltamethrin affects development of Plasmodium falciparum inside wild pyrethroid resistant Anopheles gambiae s.s. mosquitoes in Uganda
Background
Pyrethroid resistance in African vector mosquitoes is a threat to malaria control. Resistant mosquitoes can survive insecticide doses that would normally be lethal. We studied effects of such doses on…26/02/2016
Background
Pyrethroid resistance in African vector mosquitoes is a threat to malaria control. Resistant mosquitoes can survive insecticide doses that would normally be lethal. We studied effects of such doses on Plasmodium falciparum development inside kdr-resistant Anopheles gambiae s.s. in Uganda.
Methods
We…
16/02/2016Journal articlePositive deviance as a novel tool in malaria control and elimination: methodology, qualitative assessment and future potential
Background
Positive deviance (PD) is an asset-based, community-driven approach to behaviour change that has successfully been applied to address many health and social problems. It is yet to have been assessed…16/02/2016
Background
Positive deviance (PD) is an asset-based, community-driven approach to behaviour change that has successfully been applied to address many health and social problems. It is yet to have been assessed for malaria control but may represent a promising tool for…
23/11/2015Journal articleEarly identification and treatment of pneumonia: A call to actionThis call for action published by the Lancet Global Health on World Pneumonia Day 2015, calls for improved early identification and treatment of childhood pneumonia at community and outpatient level…23/11/2015
This call for action published by the Lancet Global Health on World Pneumonia Day 2015, calls for improved early identification and treatment of childhood pneumonia at community and outpatient level to reduce deaths.
Published in Lancet Global Health
02/10/2015Journal articleImpact of a behaviour change communication programme on net durability in eastern UgandaBackground
The importance of net durability and the average useful life of a net is increasingly recognized as one of the critical factors that determine how often nets need to be…02/10/2015
Background
The importance of net durability and the average useful life of a net is increasingly recognized as one of the critical factors that determine how often nets need to be replaced. A study to assess the effect of a net…
17/09/2015Journal articleEntomological surveillance following a long-lasting insecticidal net universal coverage campaign in Midwestern UgandaBackground
A universal coverage campaign (UCC) with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) was implemented in four districts in Midwestern Uganda in 2009–2010. Entomological surveys were carried out to monitor changes in vector…17/09/2015
Background
A universal coverage campaign (UCC) with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) was implemented in four districts in Midwestern Uganda in 2009–2010. Entomological surveys were carried out to monitor changes in vector density, behaviour and malaria transmission following this intervention.
Methods
Anopheles mosquitoes were…
09/09/2015Journal articleNovel cross-border approaches to optimise identification of asymptomatic and artemisinin-resistant plasmodium infection in mobile populations crossing Cambodian bordersBackground
Human population movement across country borders presents a real challenge for malaria control and elimination efforts in Cambodia and its neighbouring countries. To quantifyPlasmodium infection among the border-crossing population, including…09/09/2015
Background
Human population movement across country borders presents a real challenge for malaria control and elimination efforts in Cambodia and its neighbouring countries. To quantifyPlasmodium infection among the border-crossing population, including asymptomatic and artemisinin resistant (AR) parasites, three official border crossing…
25/08/2015Journal articleEvaluation of integrated community case management in eight districts of central UgandaObjective
Evidence is limited on whether Integrated Community Case Management (iCCM) improves treatment coverage of the top causes of childhood mortality (acute respiratory illnesses (ARI), diarrhoea and malaria). The coverage impact…25/08/2015
Objective
Evidence is limited on whether Integrated Community Case Management (iCCM) improves treatment coverage of the top causes of childhood mortality (acute respiratory illnesses (ARI), diarrhoea and malaria). The coverage impact of iCCM in Central Uganda was evaluated.
Methods
Between July 2010 and…
25/08/2015Journal articleHigh prevalence of antibiotic resistance in nasopharyngeal bacterial isolates from healthy children in rural Uganda: A cross-sectional studyBackground
In Uganda, the main causes of death in children under 5 years of age are malaria and pneumonia-often due to delayed diagnosis and treatment. In preparation for a community case…25/08/2015
Background
In Uganda, the main causes of death in children under 5 years of age are malaria and pneumonia-often due to delayed diagnosis and treatment. In preparation for a community case management intervention for pneumonia and malaria, the bacterial composition of…
01/07/2015Journal articlePotential roles of mhealth for community health workers: Formative research with end users in Uganda and MozambiqueBackground
Community health workers are reemerging as an essential component of health systems in low-income countries. However, there are concerns that unless they are adequately supported, their motivation and performance will…01/07/2015
Background
Community health workers are reemerging as an essential component of health systems in low-income countries. However, there are concerns that unless they are adequately supported, their motivation and performance will be suboptimal. mHealth presents an opportunity to improve support for…
22/05/2015Journal articleValuing the work of unpaid community health workers and exploring the incentives to volunteering in rural AfricaAbstract
Community health worker (CHW) programmes are currently being scaled-up in sub-Saharan Africa to improve access to healthcare. CHWs are often volunteers; from an economic perspective, this raises considerations whether reliance…22/05/2015
Abstract
Community health worker (CHW) programmes are currently being scaled-up in sub-Saharan Africa to improve access to healthcare. CHWs are often volunteers; from an economic perspective, this raises considerations whether reliance on an unpaid workforce is sustainable and how to appropriately…
30/04/2015Journal articleUsing theory and formative research to design interventions to improve community health worker motivation, retention and performance in Mozambique and UgandaBackground
Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly being used in low-income countries to address human resources shortages, yet there remain few effective, evidence-based strategies for addressing the enduring programmatic constraints of…30/04/2015
Background
Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly being used in low-income countries to address human resources shortages, yet there remain few effective, evidence-based strategies for addressing the enduring programmatic constraints of worker motivation, retention and performance. This paper describes how two…
27/11/2014Journal articleWhat happens to lost nets: A multi-country analysis of reasons for LLIN attrition using 14 household surveys in four countriesBackground
While significant focus has been given to net distribution, little is known about what is done with nets that leave a household, either to be used by others or when…27/11/2014
Background
While significant focus has been given to net distribution, little is known about what is done with nets that leave a household, either to be used by others or when they are discarded. To better understand the magnitude of sharing…
11/11/2014Journal articleMulti–country analysis of routine data from integrated community case management (iCCM) programs in sub–Saharan Africa
Aim
To identify better performing iCCM programs in sub–Saharan Africa (SSA) and identify factors associated with better performance using routine data.
Methods
We examined 15 evaluations or studies of integrated community case management…11/11/2014
Aim
To identify better performing iCCM programs in sub–Saharan Africa (SSA) and identify factors associated with better performance using routine data.
Methods
We examined 15 evaluations or studies of integrated community case management (iCCM) programs in SSA conducted between 2008 and 2013 and…
14/10/2014Journal articleRoutine monitoring systems for integrated community case management programs: Lessons from 18 countries in sub–Saharan AfricaAbstract
Integrated community case management (iCCM) programs are expanding rapidly in many low– and middle–income countries, particularly in sub–Saharan Africa. Conclusions from the recent review of iCCM programs in Africa emphasized…14/10/2014
Abstract
Integrated community case management (iCCM) programs are expanding rapidly in many low– and middle–income countries, particularly in sub–Saharan Africa. Conclusions from the recent review of iCCM programs in Africa emphasized the critical importance of using routine data to assess program…
10/10/2014Journal articleSetting global research priorities for integrated community case management (iCCM): Results from a CHNRI (Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative) exerciseAims
To systematically identify global research gaps and resource priorities for integrated community case management (iCCM).
Methods
An iCCM Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative (CHNRI) Advisory Group, in collaboration with the Community…10/10/2014
Aims
To systematically identify global research gaps and resource priorities for integrated community case management (iCCM).
Methods
An iCCM Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative (CHNRI) Advisory Group, in collaboration with the Community Case Management Operational Research Group (CCM ORG) identified experts to…
19/09/2014Journal articleNovel approaches to risk stratification to support malaria elimination: An example from CambodiaBackground
Accurate malaria stratification is essential for effective targeting of interventions but represents a particular challenge in pre-elimination settings. In these settings transmission is typically sufficiently low and spatially heterogeneous to…19/09/2014
Background
Accurate malaria stratification is essential for effective targeting of interventions but represents a particular challenge in pre-elimination settings. In these settings transmission is typically sufficiently low and spatially heterogeneous to warrant a need for estimates of malaria risk at sub-district…
26/06/2014Journal articleSupervising community health workers in low-income countries: A review of impact and implementation issuesFindings of this review suggest that high-quality supervision that focuses on supportive approaches, community monitoring, and/or quality assurance/problem -solving may be most effective for policy makers.26/06/2014
Findings of this review suggest that high-quality supervision that focuses on supportive approaches, community monitoring, and/or quality assurance/problem -solving may be most effective for policy makers.
19/12/2012Journal articleMalaria Policy Advisory Committee to the WHO: Conclusions and recommendations of September 2012 meeting This article provides a summary of the discussions, conclusions and recommendations from the meeting of the Malaria Policy Advisory Committee to the World Health Organization in September 2012.19/12/2012
This article provides a summary of the discussions, conclusions and recommendations from the meeting of the Malaria Policy Advisory Committee to the World Health Organization in September 2012.
07/11/2012Journal articleCommunity acceptability and adoption of integrated community case management in UgandaIntegrated community case management programmes require community sensitisation and targeted health systems strengthening to functioning optimally and enhance benefits such as reduced child mortality.07/11/2012
Integrated community case management programmes require community sensitisation and targeted health systems strengthening to functioning optimally and enhance benefits such as reduced child mortality.
07/11/2012Journal articleIntroduction of Newborn Care within Integrated Community Case Management in UgandaUganda’s Ministry of Health, together with partners, has introduced integrated community case management(iCCM) for children under 5 years. We assessed how the iCCM program addresses newborn care in threemidwestern districts…07/11/2012
Uganda’s Ministry of Health, together with partners, has introduced integrated community case management(iCCM) for children under 5 years. We assessed how the iCCM program addresses newborn care in threemidwestern districts through document reviews, structured interviews, and focus group discussions with…
11/07/2012Journal articleCommunity Health Workers Use Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) Safely and Accurately: Results of a Longitudinal Study in ZambiaMalaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) could radically improve febrile illness management in remote and low-resource populations. However, reliance upon community health workers (CHWs) remains controversial because of concerns about blood…11/07/2012
Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) could radically improve febrile illness management in remote and low-resource populations. However, reliance upon community health workers (CHWs) remains controversial because of concerns about blood safety and appropriate use of artemisinin combination therapy. This study…
07/06/2012Journal articleA stitch in time: a cross-sectional survey looking at long lasting insecticide-treated bed net ownership, utilization and attrition in SNNPR, EthiopiaSince 2002/03, an estimated 4.7 million nets have been distributed in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR) among an at risk population of approximately 10 million people. Evidence…07/06/2012
Since 2002/03, an estimated 4.7 million nets have been distributed in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR) among an at risk population of approximately 10 million people. Evidence from the region suggests that large-scale net ownership rapidly increased…
10/04/2012Journal articlePrevalence of trachoma in Unity state, South Sudan: Results from a large-scale population-based survey and potential implications for further surveysAbstract
Large parts of South Sudan are thought to be trachoma endemic but baseline data, required to initiate interventions, are few. District-by-district surveys, currently recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO),…10/04/2012
Abstract
Large parts of South Sudan are thought to be trachoma endemic but baseline data, required to initiate interventions, are few. District-by-district surveys, currently recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), are often not financially or logistically viable. We therefore adapted…
01/02/2012Journal articleCan universal insecticide-treated net campaigns achieve equity in coverage and use? The case of northern NigeriaInsecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are effective tools for malaria prevention and can significantly reduce severe disease and mortality due to malaria, especially among children under five in endemic areas. However, ITN…01/02/2012
Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are effective tools for malaria prevention and can significantly reduce severe disease and mortality due to malaria, especially among children under five in endemic areas. However, ITN coverage and use remain low and inequitable among different socio-economic…
18/01/2012Journal articlePlasmodium–Helminth coinfection and its sources of heterogeneity across East AfricaAbstract
Plasmodium–helminth coinfection can have a number of consequences for infected hosts, yet our knowledge of the epidemiology of coinfection across multiple settings is limited. This study investigates the distribution and…18/01/2012
Abstract
Plasmodium–helminth coinfection can have a number of consequences for infected hosts, yet our knowledge of the epidemiology of coinfection across multiple settings is limited. This study investigates the distribution and heterogeneity of coinfection with Plasmodium falciparum and 3 major helminth…
18/10/2011Journal articlePlacental Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection: Operational accuracy of HRP2 rapid diagnostic tests in a malaria endemic settingAbstract
Malaria has a negative effect on the outcome of pregnancy. Pregnant women are at high risk of severe malaria and severe haemolytic anaemia, which contribute over 60-70 percent of foetal…18/10/2011
Abstract
Malaria has a negative effect on the outcome of pregnancy. Pregnant women are at high risk of severe malaria and severe haemolytic anaemia, which contribute over 60-70 percent of foetal and perinatal losses. Infection with P. falciparum towards the end…
13/10/2011Journal articleEvidence for a useful life of more than three years for a polyester-based long-lasting insecticidal mosquito net in western UgandaAbstract
Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) are now standard for the prevention of malaria. However, only products with recommendation for public use from the World Health Organization should be used and this…13/10/2011
Abstract
Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) are now standard for the prevention of malaria. However, only products with recommendation for public use from the World Health Organization should be used and this evaluation includes the assessment of net effectiveness after three years…
11/10/2011Journal articleThe cost of antibiotic mass drug administration for trachoma control in a remote area of South SudanTo inform budgeting to scale up control of trachoma and other NTDs relying on large-scale mass drug administration, this study set out to determine the cost per person treated when…11/10/2011
To inform budgeting to scale up control of trachoma and other NTDs relying on large-scale mass drug administration, this study set out to determine the cost per person treated when antibiotics were delivered via a campaign in South Sudan.
30/06/2011Journal articleMortality after fluid bolus in African children with severe infectionAbstract
The role of fluid resuscitation in the treatment of children with shock and life threatening infections who live in resource-limited settings is not established. Thus, the study randomly assigned children…30/06/2011
Abstract
The role of fluid resuscitation in the treatment of children with shock and life threatening infections who live in resource-limited settings is not established. Thus, the study randomly assigned children with severe febrile illness and impaired perfusion to receive boluses…
01/03/2011Journal articleCase Management of Severe Malaria - A Forgotten Practice: Experiences from Health Facilities in UgandaSevere malaria is a life-threatening medical emergency and requires prompt and effective treatment to prevent death. However, effective management of severe malaria is relatively expensive and relies heavily on well…01/03/2011
Severe malaria is a life-threatening medical emergency and requires prompt and effective treatment to prevent death. However, effective management of severe malaria is relatively expensive and relies heavily on well equipped hospitals, with adequately trained health workers, both often lacking…
25/01/2011Journal articleA Research agenda for malaria eradication: Monitoring, evaluation and surveillanceAbstract
Monitoring, evaluation, and surveillance measure how well public health programs operate over time and achieve their goals. This report of the malERA Consultative Group on Monitoring, Evaluation, and Surveillance, focuses…25/01/2011
Abstract
Monitoring, evaluation, and surveillance measure how well public health programs operate over time and achieve their goals. This report of the malERA Consultative Group on Monitoring, Evaluation, and Surveillance, focuses on defining the monitoring and evaluation and surveillance research and…
01/10/2010Journal articleTrachoma rapid assessments in Unity and Northern Bahr-el-Ghazal states, Southern SudanAbstract
Trachoma is thought to be endemic over large parts of Southern Sudan, but empirical evidence is limited. While some areas east of the Nile have been identified as highly endemic,…01/10/2010
Abstract
Trachoma is thought to be endemic over large parts of Southern Sudan, but empirical evidence is limited. While some areas east of the Nile have been identified as highly endemic, few trachoma surveys have been conducted in the remainder of…
17/08/2010Journal articleTargeting trachoma control through risk mapping: The example of southern SudanThis study sought to develop maps to help target the available resources for trachoma surveys and interventions in southern Sudan to areas where they are most needed, thereby improving programme…17/08/2010
This study sought to develop maps to help target the available resources for trachoma surveys and interventions in southern Sudan to areas where they are most needed, thereby improving programme efficiency.
13/07/2010Journal articleCommunity acceptability of use of rapid diagnostic tests for malaria by community health workers in UgandaAbstract
Many malarious countries plan to introduce artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) at community level using community health workers (CHWs) for treatment of uncomplicated malaria. Use of ACT with reliance on presumptive…13/07/2010
Abstract
Many malarious countries plan to introduce artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) at community level using community health workers (CHWs) for treatment of uncomplicated malaria. Use of ACT with reliance on presumptive diagnosis may lead to excessive use, increased costs and rise…
13/07/2010Journal articleIntegrated surveys of neglected tropical diseases in southern Sudan: How much do they cost and can they be refined?Abstract
Control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is suggested to be more cost-effective when drugs are co-administered through a single integrated delivery system rather than separate systems. An essential prerequisite for…13/07/2010
Abstract
Control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is suggested to be more cost-effective when drugs are co-administered through a single integrated delivery system rather than separate systems. An essential prerequisite for such efficiency gains is sufficient geographical overlap of the targeted…
12/07/2010Journal articleUse of RDTs to improve malaria diagnosis and fever case management at primary healthcare facilities in UgandaThis study evaluated the effect of malaria rapid diagnostic tests on health workers' antimalarial drug prescriptions among outpatients at low-level health care facilities within different malaria epidemiological settings in…12/07/2010
This study evaluated the effect of malaria rapid diagnostic tests on health workers' antimalarial drug prescriptions among outpatients at low-level health care facilities within different malaria epidemiological settings in Uganda.
29/06/2010Journal articleHow to (or not to) integrate vertical programmes for the control of major neglected tropical diseases in sub-Saharan AfricaAbstract
Combining the delivery of multiple health interventions has the potential to minimize costs and expand intervention coverage. Integration of mass drug administration is therefore being encouraged for delivery of preventive…29/06/2010
Abstract
Combining the delivery of multiple health interventions has the potential to minimize costs and expand intervention coverage. Integration of mass drug administration is therefore being encouraged for delivery of preventive chemotherapy (PCT) to control onchocerciasis, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis,…
18/06/2010Journal articleSystem effectiveness of a targeted free mass distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets in Zanzibar, Tanzania A targeted mass distribution of free LLINs to children under five and pregnant women was implemented in Zanzibar between August 2005 and January 2006. This study evaluates the outcomes…18/06/2010
A targeted mass distribution of free LLINs to children under five and pregnant women was implemented in Zanzibar between August 2005 and January 2006. This study evaluates the outcomes of this distribution post implementation.
20/04/2010Journal articleCosts and effects of two public sector delivery channels for long-lasting insecticidal nets in UgandaAbstract
In Uganda, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) have been predominantly delivered through two public sector channels: targeted campaigns or routine antenatal care (ANC) services. Their combination in a mixed-model strategy is…20/04/2010
Abstract
In Uganda, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) have been predominantly delivered through two public sector channels: targeted campaigns or routine antenatal care (ANC) services. Their combination in a mixed-model strategy is being advocated to quickly increase LLIN coverage and maintain it…
24/03/2010Journal articleEvaluation of interceptor long-lasting insecticidal nets in eight communities in LiberiaAbstract
There has been a renewed emphasis on preventive measures for malaria at community and individual levels. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) have been strongly advocated for use to prevent malaria in…24/03/2010
Abstract
There has been a renewed emphasis on preventive measures for malaria at community and individual levels. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) have been strongly advocated for use to prevent malaria in sub-Saharan Africa and are considered to be a significant improvement…
01/02/2010Journal articleAn assessment of lot quality assurance sampling to evaluate malaria outcome indicators: Extending malaria indicator surveysAbstract
Large investments and increased global prioritization of malaria prevention and treatment have resulted in greater emphasis on programme monitoring and evaluation (M&E) in many countries. Many countries currently use…01/02/2010
Abstract
Large investments and increased global prioritization of malaria prevention and treatment have resulted in greater emphasis on programme monitoring and evaluation (M&E) in many countries. Many countries currently use large multistage cluster sample surveys to monitor malaria outcome indicators…