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Journal articles
01/07/2022 Journal article Digital molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases in sub-Saharan Africa The Digital Diagnostics for Africa Network have identified new digital diagnostic 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 digital diagnostic technologies with the potential to bring the laboratory to the patient, wherever they may be.
16/06/2022 Journal article A stakeholder group assessment of interactions between child health and the Sustainable Development Goals in Cambodia To better understand in what way the efforts to achieve the different Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are interconnected, a group with different expertise and perspectives was assembled in Cambodia to… 16/06/2022 To better understand in what way the efforts to achieve the different Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are interconnected, a group with different expertise and perspectives was assembled in Cambodia to score the linkages between the SDGs and child health.
06/06/2022 Journal article Surveillance as a core intervention to strengthen malaria control programmes in moderate to high transmission settings New tools are needed for malaria control, and recent improvements in malaria surveillance have opened the possibility of transforming surveillance into a core intervention. 06/06/2022 New tools are needed for malaria control, and recent improvements in malaria surveillance have opened the possibility of transforming surveillance into a core intervention.
04/12/2021 Journal article Does anthropogenic introduction of guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) impact faunal species diversity and abundance in natural aquatic habitats?: A systematic review protocol The objective of this study is to assess, by systematic review, the potential impact on the diversity and abundance of faunal species by anthropogenic introduction of guppy fish. 04/12/2021 The objective of this study is to assess, by systematic review, the potential impact on the diversity and abundance of faunal species by anthropogenic introduction of guppy fish.
04/12/2021 Journal article Determinants of malaria testing at health facilities: The case of Uganda This study's findings underscore the need for malaria control programmes to provide regular supportive supervision to health facilities and train health workers in the use of rapid diagnostic testing. 04/12/2021 This study's findings underscore the need for malaria control programmes to provide regular supportive supervision to health facilities and train health workers in the use of rapid diagnostic testing.
22/11/2021 Journal article Health management information system (HMIS) data quality and associated factors in Massaguet district, Chad A cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 health facilities in Massaguet district. Data on children under 15 years were obtained from the HMIS and from the external patient register covering… 22/11/2021 A cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 health facilities in Massaguet district. Data on children under 15 years were obtained from the HMIS and from the external patient register covering the period January–December 2018.
25/10/2021 Journal article Impact of current malaria infection and previous malaria exposure on the clinical profiles and outcome of COVID-19 in a high malaria transmission setting: A prospective cohort study Our COVID-19 and malaria co-infection study found that low previous malaria exposure was associated with severe or critical COVID-19 and adverse outcomes in a high burden malaria setting. 25/10/2021 Our COVID-19 and malaria co-infection study found that low previous malaria exposure was associated with severe or critical COVID-19 and adverse outcomes in a high burden malaria setting.
18/10/2021 Journal article Modelled impact of seasonal malaria chemoprevention on district-level suspected and confirmed malaria cases in Chad based on routine clinical data (2013–2018) This study’s approach presents a solution for employing readily available routine data to evaluate the impact of health interventions at scale without extensive covariate data. Further efforts are needed to… 18/10/2021 This study’s approach presents a solution for employing readily available routine data to evaluate the impact of health interventions at scale without extensive covariate data. Further efforts are needed to improve the quality of routine data in Chad and elsewhere.
15/10/2021 Journal article A feasibility study to assess non-clinical community health workers’ capacity to use simplified protocols and tools to treat severe acute malnutrition in Niger state, Nigeria This study demonstrated that, with training and supportive supervision, community-oriented resource persons in Nigeria can treat severe acute malnutrition among under-fives, and refer complicated cases using simplified protocols as part… 15/10/2021 This study demonstrated that, with training and supportive supervision, community-oriented resource persons in Nigeria can treat severe acute malnutrition among under-fives, and refer complicated cases using simplified protocols as part of an integrated community case management programme.
17/09/2021 Journal article Assessment of the feasibility, acceptability and impact of implementing seasonal malaria chemoprevention in Nampula Province, Mozambique: Protocol for a hybrid effectiveness-implementation study This study will provide a unique contribution to the evidence on the prevalence of SPAQ resistance in Mozambique and will inform future SMC implementation in Mozambique and other countries and… 17/09/2021 This study will provide a unique contribution to the evidence on the prevalence of SPAQ resistance in Mozambique and will inform future SMC implementation in Mozambique and other countries and potentially enhance the quality of SMC distribution.
09/09/2021 Journal article Development of weight and age-based dosing of daily primaquine for radical cure of vivax malaria The lack of pharmacokinetic data in young children with vivax malaria is a major evidence gap. The aim of this study was to develop 14-day weight-based and age-based primaquine regimens… 09/09/2021 The lack of pharmacokinetic data in young children with vivax malaria is a major evidence gap. The aim of this study was to develop 14-day weight-based and age-based primaquine regimens against high-frequency relapsing tropical Plasmodium vivax.
08/09/2021 Journal article Effectiveness of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) treatments when SMC is implemented at scale: Case-control studies in five countries This study found that SMC was highly effective in preventing clinical malaria when delivered at scale through national malaria control programmes. This case-control design can be used by national malaria… 08/09/2021 This study found that SMC was highly effective in preventing clinical malaria when delivered at scale through national malaria control programmes. This case-control design can be used by national malaria control programmes at intervals to confirm that SMC remains effective.
07/09/2021 Journal article Field efficacy of larvivorous fish and pyriproxyfen combined with community engagement on dengue vectors in Cambodia: A randomised controlled trial The aim of this trial was to demonstrate the community effectiveness of guppies, PPF and COMBI activities in reducing numbers of Aedes mosquitoes and their infection rates in Cambodia. 07/09/2021 The aim of this trial was to demonstrate the community effectiveness of guppies, PPF and COMBI activities in reducing numbers of Aedes mosquitoes and their infection rates in Cambodia.
19/08/2021 Journal article Knowledge assessment of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria Knowledge of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners is essential for achieving optimal clinical outcomes in snakebite management. This study aimed to assess knowledge of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners in… 19/08/2021 Knowledge of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners is essential for achieving optimal clinical outcomes in snakebite management. This study aimed to assess knowledge of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria.
10/08/2021 Journal article An assessment of the knowledge, practices and resources during the delivery of malaria health care services among private health care practitioners: A cross section study in the mid-western region of Uganda This study collected information on availability of treatment aides, knowledge on malaria, malaria case management, laboratory practices, malaria drugs stock and data management. We determined the proportion of health workers… 10/08/2021 This study collected information on availability of treatment aides, knowledge on malaria, malaria case management, laboratory practices, malaria drugs stock and data management. We determined the proportion of health workers that adequately provided malaria case management according to national standards.
05/08/2021 Journal article Evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of a community dialogue intervention in the prevention and control of schistosomiasis in Nampula province, Mozambique This study aimed to test the community dialogue approach to improve schistosomiasis prevention and control in Nampula, a province most affected by the neglected tropical disease. 05/08/2021 This study aimed to test the community dialogue approach to improve schistosomiasis prevention and control in Nampula, a province most affected by the neglected tropical disease.
23/07/2021 Journal article Performance of five pulse oximeters to detect hypoxaemia as an indicator of severe illness in children under five by frontline health workers in low-resource settings In this first trial in Cambodia, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Uganda, researchers wanted to identify the most accurate and user-friendly pulse oximeters for frontline health workers to detect low blood… 23/07/2021 In this first trial in Cambodia, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Uganda, researchers wanted to identify the most accurate and user-friendly pulse oximeters for frontline health workers to detect low blood oxygen saturation in children under five.
22/07/2021 Journal article The role of adaptive surveillance as a core intervention to achieve malaria elimination A strong surveillance system is critical to implementing an efficient and effective malaria programme to monitor disease trends and optimise targeting of interventions to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination. 22/07/2021 A strong surveillance system is critical to implementing an efficient and effective malaria programme to monitor disease trends and optimise targeting of interventions to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination.
02/07/2021 Journal article The effect of cattle-administered ivermectin and fipronil on the mortality and fecundity of Anopheles arabiensis Patton Endectocide drugs are effective against a range of internal nematodes parasites and blood-feeding arthropods. This study investigated the effect of two endectocides — injectable ivermectin and topical fipronil — on… 02/07/2021 Endectocide drugs are effective against a range of internal nematodes parasites and blood-feeding arthropods. This study investigated the effect of two endectocides — injectable ivermectin and topical fipronil — on the survival and fecundity of zoophilic Anopheles arabiensis.
26/06/2021 Journal article Aedes species (Diptera: Culicidae) ecological and host feeding patterns in the north-eastern parts of South Africa, 2014–2018. Multiple mosquito species transmit pathogens to humans and animals. In this study, we used entomological surveillance in selected areas in the north-eastern parts of South Africa to assess mosquito diversity,… 26/06/2021 Multiple mosquito species transmit pathogens to humans and animals. In this study, we used entomological surveillance in selected areas in the north-eastern parts of South Africa to assess mosquito diversity, with special emphasis on the Aedes species.
13/06/2021 Journal article Evaluating the interrater agreement and acceptability of a new reference tool for assessing respiratory rate in children under five with cough and/or difficulty breathing Pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of death in children. A new reference tool which facilitates manual annotation of breaths based on videos was developed to improve diagnosis of suspected… 13/06/2021 Pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of death in children. A new reference tool which facilitates manual annotation of breaths based on videos was developed to improve diagnosis of suspected cases and appropriate treatment.
09/06/2021 Journal article Prevalence and seroprevalence of Plasmodium infection in Myanmar reveals highly heterogeneous transmission and a large hidden reservoir of infection The results of the first ever Myanmar Malaria Indicator Survey reveal programmatically important epidemiological findings not apparent in routine surveillance data. 09/06/2021 The results of the first ever Myanmar Malaria Indicator Survey reveal programmatically important epidemiological findings not apparent in routine surveillance data.
09/06/2021 Journal article Forced-egg laying method to establish F1 progeny from field populations and laboratory strains of Anopheles mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Thailand Malaria control in Thailand relies mainly on vector control through the use of insecticide-treated nets, long-lasting insecticide nets and indoor residual spraying. This study explored the feasibility of using the… 09/06/2021 Malaria control in Thailand relies mainly on vector control through the use of insecticide-treated nets, long-lasting insecticide nets and indoor residual spraying. This study explored the feasibility of using the forced-egg laying method for producing F1 from seven Anopheles species.
07/06/2021 Journal article Reactive, self-administered malaria treatment against asymptomatic malaria infection: Results of a cluster randomised controlled trial in The Gambia Selectively targeting and treating malaria-infected individuals may further decrease parasite carriage in low-burden settings. Using a trans-disciplinary approach, a reactive treatment strategy to reduce prevalence in participating communities was co-developed… 07/06/2021 Selectively targeting and treating malaria-infected individuals may further decrease parasite carriage in low-burden settings. Using a trans-disciplinary approach, a reactive treatment strategy to reduce prevalence in participating communities was co-developed and tested.
29/05/2021 Journal article Report of the 2018 annual meeting of the Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network Vector Control Working Group: Harnessing skills and knowledge for malaria elimination across the Asia Pacific The 2018 Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network’s Vector Control Working Group annual meeting took place 3–5 September 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. Highlights from the meeting are described in this report. 29/05/2021 The 2018 Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network’s Vector Control Working Group annual meeting took place 3–5 September 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. Highlights from the meeting are described in this report.
24/05/2021 Journal article The impact of malaria coinfection on Ebola virus disease outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis Infectious diseases including malaria can alter immune responses to secondary infection, like Ebola virus disease. Understanding how the malaria and Ebola virus interact is important for future outbreaks. 24/05/2021 Infectious diseases including malaria can alter immune responses to secondary infection, like Ebola virus disease. Understanding how the malaria and Ebola virus interact is important for future outbreaks.
13/05/2021 Journal article Navigating the COVID-19 crisis to sustain community-based malaria interventions in Cambodia Malaria Consortium was able to provide continued care and support for mobile malaria workers and communities in Cambodia by conducting a COVID-19 rapid risk assessment and mitigation plan. 13/05/2021 Malaria Consortium was able to provide continued care and support for mobile malaria workers and communities in Cambodia by conducting a COVID-19 rapid risk assessment and mitigation plan.
27/04/2021 Journal article Residual malaria transmission in select countries of Asia-Pacific region: Old wine in a new barrel Despite the contribution of insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying for vector control, malaria persists, with a disproportionate impact in the Asia-Pacific region. This systematic review looks at… 27/04/2021 Despite the contribution of insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying for vector control, malaria persists, with a disproportionate impact in the Asia-Pacific region. This systematic review looks at when and where residual malaria transmission is occurring.
31/03/2021 Journal article Private health care market shaping and changes in inequities in childhood diarrhoea treatment coverage: Evidence from the analysis of baseline and endline surveys of an ORS and zinc scale-up programme in Nigeria This study aims to examine how inequities in the coverage of oral rehydration solution and zinc — effective treatments for diarrhoea in under-fives — may have changed over the course… 31/03/2021 This study aims to examine how inequities in the coverage of oral rehydration solution and zinc — effective treatments for diarrhoea in under-fives — may have changed over the course of the programme.
26/03/2021 Journal article Health and demographic surveillance system: A potential tool for solving challenges associated with epidemic surveillance and social protection scheme for COVID-19 pandemic response in Nigeria This paper aims to highlight the importance of a health and demographic surveillance system and its potential to strengthen the coping strategies of citizens in the face of the COVID-19… 26/03/2021 This paper aims to highlight the importance of a health and demographic surveillance system and its potential to strengthen the coping strategies of citizens in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
01/03/2021 Journal article Does integrated community case management target health inequities and treatment delays? Evidence from an analysis of demographic and health surveys data from 21 countries in the period 2010 to 2018 We present information on the contribution community health workers (CHWs) are making to health care provision within selected countries, comparing CHWs with other health care providers and assessing the treatments… 01/03/2021 We present information on the contribution community health workers (CHWs) are making to health care provision within selected countries, comparing CHWs with other health care providers and assessing the treatments CHWs are providing.
25/02/2021 Journal article Antibiotic practices among household members and their domestic animals within rural communities in Cumilla district, Bangladesh: A cross-sectional survey This study highlights the need for context-adapted interventions at both the community level and the health systems level to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use among humans and domestic animals in rural… 25/02/2021 This study highlights the need for context-adapted interventions at both the community level and the health systems level to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use among humans and domestic animals in rural Bangladesh.
25/02/2021 Journal article Geographical and temporal variation in reduction of malaria infection among children under five years of age throughout Nigeria Between 2010 and 2018, there were significant declines in prevalence in 25 of the states, most pronounced in the southern and north-central zones of the country, although slight reductions in… 25/02/2021 Between 2010 and 2018, there were significant declines in prevalence in 25 of the states, most pronounced in the southern and north-central zones of the country, although slight reductions in the more northern zones were also significant.
22/02/2021 Journal article Eliminating Plasmodium falciparum malaria: Results from tailoring active case detection approaches to remote populations in forested border areas in north-eastern Cambodia This case study presents a successful approach to implementing tailored active case detection strategies in forested border areas in north-eastern Cambodia. 22/02/2021 This case study presents a successful approach to implementing tailored active case detection strategies in forested border areas in north-eastern Cambodia.
10/02/2021 Journal article Community health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19: Learnings from an online cross-sectional survey using a digital health platform, UpSCALE, in Mozambique Adapting the existing upSCALE platform enabled a better understanding, in real time, of the knowledge, attitudes and practices of community health workers in Mozambique around COVID-19 management. 10/02/2021 Adapting the existing upSCALE platform enabled a better understanding, in real time, of the knowledge, attitudes and practices of community health workers in Mozambique around COVID-19 management.
29/01/2021 Journal article Seasonal malaria chemoprevention in the Sahel subregion of Africa: A cost-effectiveness and cost-savings analysis This study provides timely and important evidence on the cost, cost-effectiveness and potential cost savings of the first large-scale, multi-country seasonal malaria chemoprevention campaign. 29/01/2021 This study provides timely and important evidence on the cost, cost-effectiveness and potential cost savings of the first large-scale, multi-country seasonal malaria chemoprevention campaign.
29/01/2021 Journal article The burden of drug abuse in Nigeria: A scoping review of epidemiological studies and drug laws Drug abuse is emerging as a global public health issue. In this review, we summarise the recent data on drug abuse in Nigeria where drug abuse is on the rise… 29/01/2021 Drug abuse is emerging as a global public health issue. In this review, we summarise the recent data on drug abuse in Nigeria where drug abuse is on the rise and becoming a public health concern.
19/01/2021 Journal article Assessment of COVID-19 information overload among the general public During COVID-19, false news and conspiracy theories were shared with the general public, which may lead to increased anxiety. This assessment sought to measure the level of COVID-19 information overload… 19/01/2021 During COVID-19, false news and conspiracy theories were shared with the general public, which may lead to increased anxiety. This assessment sought to measure the level of COVID-19 information overload and assess the sociodemographic characteristics among the public.
09/01/2021 Journal article Drug resistance markers within an evolving efficacy of anti-malarial drugs in Cameroon: A systematic review and meta-analysis (1998–2020) Malaria is highly endemic in Cameroon. This systematic review and meta analysis aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of Plasmodium falciparum drug resistance markers within an evolving efficacy of… 09/01/2021 Malaria is highly endemic in Cameroon. This systematic review and meta analysis aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of Plasmodium falciparum drug resistance markers within an evolving efficacy of anti-malarial drugs in Cameroon.
09/01/2021 Journal article New assessment of Anopheles vector species identification using MALDI-TOF MS Anopheles species identification is essential for an effective malaria vector control programme. To determine the body part of Anopheles mosquitoes best suited for the identification of field specimens, a mass… 09/01/2021 Anopheles species identification is essential for an effective malaria vector control programme. To determine the body part of Anopheles mosquitoes best suited for the identification of field specimens, a mass spectral library was generated.
07/01/2021 Journal article Challenges and strategies for conducting clinical research during the COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences from resource-limited settings Malaria Consortium recently initiated an observational case series study to assess the magnitude and clinical consequences of coinfection of COVID-19, malaria and other common infections. This study is being conducted… 07/01/2021 Malaria Consortium recently initiated an observational case series study to assess the magnitude and clinical consequences of coinfection of COVID-19, malaria and other common infections. This study is being conducted in eight COVID-19 treatment centres in Uganda.
14/12/2020 Journal article COVID-19 knowledge, beliefs, prevention behaviours and misinformation in the context of an adapted seasonal malaria chemoprevention campaign in six northern Nigerian states In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, we adapted our seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) delivery model to ensure safety of distributors, data collectors and communities. Our SMC programme was a… 14/12/2020 In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, we adapted our seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) delivery model to ensure safety of distributors, data collectors and communities. Our SMC programme was a conduit for high-quality public health messages.
05/12/2020 Journal article Effectiveness of seasonal malaria chemoprevention at scale in west and central Africa: An observational study This study evaluates the ACCESS-SMC project, which sought to remove barriers to SMC scale-up in seven countries in 2015–2016. These results represent the first large-scale evaluation of SMC implemented by… 05/12/2020 This study evaluates the ACCESS-SMC project, which sought to remove barriers to SMC scale-up in seven countries in 2015–2016. These results represent the first large-scale evaluation of SMC implemented by national programmes, and provide evidence of impact on malaria deaths.
17/06/2020 Journal article A process for developing a sustainable and scalable approach to community engagement: Community dialogue approach for addressing the drivers of antibiotic resistance in Bangladesh This study explores the process of developing an embedded approach to community engagement, taking the global challenge of antibiotic resistance as an example. 17/06/2020 This study explores the process of developing an embedded approach to community engagement, taking the global challenge of antibiotic resistance as an example.
26/05/2020 Journal article Protecting children in low-income and middle-income countries from COVID-19 Abstract A saving grace of the COVID-19 pandemic in high-income and upper middle-income countries has been the relative sparing of children. As the disease spreads across low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs),… 26/05/2020 Abstract A saving grace of the COVID-19 pandemic in high-income and upper middle-income countries has been the relative sparing of children. As the disease spreads across low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), long-standing system vulnerabilities may tragically manifest, and we worry that…
14/05/2020 Journal article Quantification of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity by spectrophotometry: A systemic review and meta-analysis Background The radical cure of Plasmodium vivax and P. ovale requires treatment with primaquine or tafenoquine to clear dormant liver stages. Either drug can induce haemolysis in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase… 14/05/2020 Background The radical cure of Plasmodium vivax and P. ovale requires treatment with primaquine or tafenoquine to clear dormant liver stages. Either drug can induce haemolysis in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, necessitating screening. The reference diagnostic method for G6PD…
06/04/2020 Journal article Community engagement interventions for communicable disease control in low- and lower- middle-income countries: Evidence from a review of systematic reviews Background Community engagement (CE) interventions include a range of approaches to involve communities in the improvement of their health and wellbeing. Working with communities defined by location or some other… 06/04/2020 Background Community engagement (CE) interventions include a range of approaches to involve communities in the improvement of their health and wellbeing. Working with communities defined by location or some other shared interest, these interventions may be important in assisting equity…
02/04/2020 Journal article Determining the agreement between an automated respiratory rate counter and a reference standard for detecting symptoms of pneumonia in children: Protocol for a cross-sectional study in Ethiopia Manually counting respiratory rate is a common method to detect fast breathing, an important sign of pneumonia. However, correctly counting breaths manually and classifying the respiratory rate is challenging, often… 02/04/2020 Manually counting respiratory rate is a common method to detect fast breathing, an important sign of pneumonia. However, correctly counting breaths manually and classifying the respiratory rate is challenging, often leading to inappropriate treatment.
30/03/2020 Journal article Automated respiratory rate counter to assess children for symptoms of pneumonia: Protocol for cross-sectional usability and acceptability studies in Ethiopia and Nepal Background Manually counting a child’s respiratory rate (RR) for 60 seconds using an acute respiratory infection timer is the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended method for detecting fast breathing as a… 30/03/2020 Background Manually counting a child’s respiratory rate (RR) for 60 seconds using an acute respiratory infection timer is the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended method for detecting fast breathing as a sign of pneumonia. However, counting the RR is challenging and…
27/02/2020 Journal article Evaluation of a capacity building intervention on malaria treatment for under‑fives in rural health facilities in Niger State, Nigeria Background Despite the uptake of parasitological testing into policy and practice, appropriate prescription of anti-malarials and artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) in accordance with test results is variable. This study describes… 27/02/2020 Background Despite the uptake of parasitological testing into policy and practice, appropriate prescription of anti-malarials and artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) in accordance with test results is variable. This study describes a National Malaria Control Programme-led capacity building intervention which was…
12/01/2020 Journal article Usability and acceptability of an automated respiratory rate counter to assess childhood pneumonia in Nepal We evaluated the usability of a new automated respiratory rate counter by female community health volunteers (FCHVs), and its acceptability to FCHVs and caregivers in Nepal. 12/01/2020 We evaluated the usability of a new automated respiratory rate counter by female community health volunteers (FCHVs), and its acceptability to FCHVs and caregivers in Nepal.
17/12/2019 Journal article Usability and acceptability of an automated respiratory rate counter to assess children for symptoms of pneumonia: A cross-sectional study in Ethiopia This study aimed to determine the usability of a new automated respiratory rate counter by health extension workers (HEWs), and its acceptability to HEWs, first-level health facility workers and caregivers… 17/12/2019 This study aimed to determine the usability of a new automated respiratory rate counter by health extension workers (HEWs), and its acceptability to HEWs, first-level health facility workers and caregivers in Ethiopia.
17/12/2019 Journal article Implementation of guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata), and a novel larvicide (Pyriproxyfen) product (Sumilarv 2MR) for dengue control in Cambodia: A qualitative study of acceptability, sustainability and community engagement This qualitative study aims to better understand the community acceptance and perceptions of biological controls that would overcome insecticide resistance, for consideration in dengue control strategies for the future. 17/12/2019 This qualitative study aims to better understand the community acceptance and perceptions of biological controls that would overcome insecticide resistance, for consideration in dengue control strategies for the future.
13/12/2019 Journal article Gender-related factors affecting health seeking for neglected tropical diseases: Findings from a qualitative study in Ethiopia There is limited discussion of the influence of gender in neglected tropical disease programmes and interventions, despite known gender-specific differences regarding prevalence, transmission and exposure. This study applied a gender… 13/12/2019 There is limited discussion of the influence of gender in neglected tropical disease programmes and interventions, despite known gender-specific differences regarding prevalence, transmission and exposure. This study applied a gender lens to health seeking in Ethiopia for five NTDs.
05/12/2019 Journal article More work needs to be done to ensure that better pneumonia diagnostics aids are developed and launched to better support frontline health workers Malaria Consortium's response to Ansermino et al.'s article 'Are respiratory rate counters really so bad' was published in EClinicalMedicine. 05/12/2019 Malaria Consortium's response to Ansermino et al.'s article 'Are respiratory rate counters really so bad' was published in EClinicalMedicine.
18/11/2019 Journal article Consequences of restricting antimalarial drugs to rapid diagnostic test-positive febrile children in south-west Nigeria Objectives To investigate the consequence of restricting antimalarial treatment to febrile children that test positive to a malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) only in an area of intense malaria transmission. Methods… 18/11/2019 Objectives To investigate the consequence of restricting antimalarial treatment to febrile children that test positive to a malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) only in an area of intense malaria transmission. Methods Febrile children aged 3–59 months were screened with an mRDT…
07/11/2019 Journal article Institutionalisation of integrated community case management into national health systems in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review of the literature Background Integrated community case management (iCCM) for malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea continues to be a recommended strategy to address child mortality in areas where access to health facilities is limited. Objective To identify… 07/11/2019 Background Integrated community case management (iCCM) for malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea continues to be a recommended strategy to address child mortality in areas where access to health facilities is limited. Objective To identify models of, and gaps in, institutionalisation of benchmark components of…
23/09/2019 Journal article Characterising residual malaria transmission in forested areas with low coverage of core vector control in central Viet Nam Background Despite great success in significantly reducing the malaria burden in Viet Nam over recent years, the ongoing presence of malaria vectors and Plasmodium infection in remote forest areas and among… 23/09/2019 Background Despite great success in significantly reducing the malaria burden in Viet Nam over recent years, the ongoing presence of malaria vectors and Plasmodium infection in remote forest areas and among marginalised groups presents a challenge to reaching elimination and a…
05/07/2019 Journal article Transmission risk beyond the village: entomological and human factors contributing to residual malaria transmission in an area approaching malaria elimination on the Thailand–Myanmar border Background A mixed methods study was conducted to look at the magnitude of residual malaria transmission (RMT) and factors contributing to low (< 1% prevalence), but sustained transmission in rural… 05/07/2019 Background A mixed methods study was conducted to look at the magnitude of residual malaria transmission (RMT) and factors contributing to low (< 1% prevalence), but sustained transmission in rural communities on the Thai–Myanmar border. Methods A cross-sectional behaviour and…
01/07/2019 Journal article Performance of four respiratory rate counters to support community health workers to detect the symptoms of pneumonia in children in low resource settings: A prospective, multicentre, hospital-based, single-blinded, comparative trial Background Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in children under-five globally. The current diagnostic criteria for pneumonia are based on increased respiratory rate (RR) or chest in-drawing in… 01/07/2019 Background Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in children under-five globally. The current diagnostic criteria for pneumonia are based on increased respiratory rate (RR) or chest in-drawing in children with cough and/or difficulty breathing. Accurately counting RR is…
27/06/2019 Journal article Effect of community-based intervention on improving access to treatment for sick under-five children in hard-to-reach communities in Niger State, Nigeria Background Access to prompt and appropriate treatment is key to survival for children with malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea. Community-based services are vital to extending care to remote populations. Malaria Consortium supported… 27/06/2019 Background Access to prompt and appropriate treatment is key to survival for children with malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea. Community-based services are vital to extending care to remote populations. Malaria Consortium supported Niger state Ministry of Health, Nigeria, to introduce and implement…
27/06/2019 Journal article Barriers on the pathway to survival for children dying from treatable illnesses in Inhambane province, Mozambique Background Mozambique has one of the highest under-5 mortality rates in the world. Community health workers (CHWs) are deployed to increase access to care; in Mozambique they are known as… 27/06/2019 Background Mozambique has one of the highest under-5 mortality rates in the world. Community health workers (CHWs) are deployed to increase access to care; in Mozambique they are known as agentes polivalentes elementares (APEs). This study aimed to investigate child…
27/06/2019 Journal article Community engagement and mobilisation of local resources to support integrated Community Case Management of childhood illnesses in Niger State, Nigeria Background Despite strong evidence of integrated community case management (iCCM) of childhood illnesses being a proven intervention for reducing childhood morbidity and mortality, sustainability remains a challenge in most settings.… 27/06/2019 Background Despite strong evidence of integrated community case management (iCCM) of childhood illnesses being a proven intervention for reducing childhood morbidity and mortality, sustainability remains a challenge in most settings. Community ownership and contribution are important factors in sustainability. The…
25/06/2019 Journal article Integrated community case management: Planning for sustainability in five African countries The World Health Organization launched an initiative to plan for the sustainability of integrated community case management (iCCM) programmes supported by the Rapid Access Expansion programme in five African countries… 25/06/2019 The World Health Organization launched an initiative to plan for the sustainability of integrated community case management (iCCM) programmes supported by the Rapid Access Expansion programme in five African countries in 2016.
10/03/2019 Journal article Dengue situation in Bangladesh: An epidemiological shift in terms of morbidity and mortality In this study, climatic changes and rapid unplanned urbanization were strong predictors of an ecological imbalance that led to increased dengue cases in 2016, and the emergence of chikungunya virus… 10/03/2019 In this study, climatic changes and rapid unplanned urbanization were strong predictors of an ecological imbalance that led to increased dengue cases in 2016, and the emergence of chikungunya virus in Bangladesh in 2017.
08/02/2019 Journal article Knowledge, attitudes and practices with regard to schistosomiasis prevention and control: Two cross-sectional household surveys before and after a community dialogue intervention in Nampula province, Mozambique Schistosomiasis is a parasitic neglected tropical disease that affects around 190 million people worldwide, causing chronic ill health and disability. Central to its prevention and control are the acceptance of… 08/02/2019 Schistosomiasis is a parasitic neglected tropical disease that affects around 190 million people worldwide, causing chronic ill health and disability. Central to its prevention and control are the acceptance of health interventions, such as mass drug distribution and the adoption…
12/11/2018 Journal article Comparative efficacy of artemether-lumefantrine and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ugandan children 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… 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,…
06/11/2018 Journal article Immediate 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…
26/10/2018 Journal article Effect 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…
25/10/2018 Journal article Performance, Acceptability, and Usability of Respiratory Rate Timers and Pulse Oximeters When Used by Frontline Health Workers to Detect Symptoms of Pneumonia in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia: Protocol for a Two-Phase, Multisite, Mixed-Methods Trial BACKGROUND:Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in children aged under 5 years in both sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. The current diagnostic criterion for pneumonia is based… 25/10/2018 BACKGROUND:Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in children aged under 5 years in both sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. The current diagnostic criterion for pneumonia is based on the increased respiratory rate (RR) in children with cough…
10/10/2018 Journal article Digital Technologies for Health Workforce Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review 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… 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,…
17/09/2018 Journal article Management and Follow-up Practices of Children with Unclassified Fever in Rural Ethiopia: Experiences of Health Extension Workers and Caregivers 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… 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…
06/09/2018 Journal article Improving health worker performance through text messaging: A mixed-methods evaluation of a pilot intervention designed to increase coverage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy in West Nile, Uganda Poor health worker performance is a well-documented obstacle to quality service provision. Due to the increasingly widespread availability of mobile devices, mobile health (mHealth) has received growing attention as a… 06/09/2018 Poor health worker performance is a well-documented obstacle to quality service provision. Due to the increasingly widespread availability of mobile devices, mobile health (mHealth) has received growing attention as a service improvement tool. This pilot study explored feasibility, acceptability and…
17/08/2018 Journal article Human and Simian Malaria in the Greater Mekong Subregion and Challenges for Elimination 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… 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…
19/07/2018 Journal article Community understanding of the concept of pre-referral treatment and how this impacts on referral related decision-making following the provision of rectal artesunate: A qualitative study in western Uganda Background Successful pre-referral treatment with rectal artesunate (RA) for suspected severe malaria requires operational linkages between community health workers (CHWs) and referral facilities, acceptance of pre-referral treatment and adherence to referral… 19/07/2018 Background Successful pre-referral treatment with rectal artesunate (RA) for suspected severe malaria requires operational linkages between community health workers (CHWs) and referral facilities, acceptance of pre-referral treatment and adherence to referral practices by CHWs and caregivers. This qualitative study investigated how…
29/06/2018 Journal article Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of a School Insecticide-Treated Net Distribution Program in Cross River State, Nigeria 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… 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…
12/04/2018 Journal article Universal versus conditional third day follow-up visit for children with nonsevere unclassified fever at the community level in Ethiopia: Protocol for a cluster randomized noninferiority trial BackgroundUnder the World Health Organization’s integrated community case management strategy, febrile children seen by community health workers (on day one) without a diagnosable illness and without danger signs are advised… 12/04/2018 BackgroundUnder the World Health Organization’s integrated community case management strategy, febrile children seen by community health workers (on day one) without a diagnosable illness and without danger signs are advised to return on day three, regardless of symptom resolution. This…
22/03/2018 Journal article Impact of a 15-month multi-channel continuous distribution pilot on ITN ownership and access in Eastern Region, Ghana 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… 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…
14/03/2018 Journal article Resistance of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Populations to Deltamethrin, Permethrin, and Temephos in Cambodia 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… 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…
16/02/2018 Journal article Dengue knowledge, attitudes and practices and their impact on community-based vector control in rural Cambodia 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… 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…
06/02/2018 Journal article Private sector malaria RDT initiative in Nigeria: lessons from an end-of-project stakeholder engagement meeting 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… 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…
06/01/2018 Journal article Immediate 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…
28/11/2017 Journal article Integrated community case management in a peri-urban setting: A qualitative evaluation in Wakiso District, Uganda 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.… 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…
23/11/2017 Journal article Spatiotemporal 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…
09/10/2017 Journal article Neglected tropical diseases: Exploring long-term practical approaches to achieve sustainable disease elimination and beyond 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… 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.
17/08/2017 Journal article Evaluation 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…
10/08/2017 Journal article Evaluation 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…
07/08/2017 Journal article Determining the efficacy of guppies and pyriproxyfen (Sumilarv® 2MR) combined with community engagement on dengue vectors in Cambodia: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial Background Evidence on the effectiveness of low-cost, sustainable, biological vector-control tools for the Aedes mosquitoes is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this trial is to estimate the impact of guppy fish… 07/08/2017 Background Evidence on the effectiveness of low-cost, sustainable, biological vector-control tools for the Aedes mosquitoes is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this trial is to estimate the impact of guppy fish (guppies), in combination with the use of the larvicide pyriproxyfen…
06/07/2017 Journal article Mass drug administration in Central Equatoria, South Sudan: Results and suggestions for future distributions 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… 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…
14/06/2017 Journal article Experiences from developing and upgrading a web-based surveillance system for malaria elimination in Cambodia 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… 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,…
07/06/2017 Journal article Community dialogues for child health: Results from a qualitative process evaluation in three countries 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… 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…
09/05/2017 Journal article Childhood pneumonia diagnostics: Community health workers’ and national stakeholders’ differing perspectives of new and existing aids 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… 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…
20/04/2017 Journal article Insecticide 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…
20/04/2017 Journal article Quality issues with malaria rapid diagnostic test accessories and buffer packaging: Findings from a five-country private sector project in Africa 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… 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.…
17/04/2017 Journal article Travel and the emergence of high-level drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum in southwest Uganda: Results from a population-based study 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… 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 occurrence…
28/03/2017 Journal article Acceptability of insecticide-treated clothing for malaria prevention among migrant rubber tappers in Myanmar: A cluster-randomised non-inferiority crossover trial Background Insecticide-treated clothing (ITC) has long been used for military and outdoor recreational purposes and there is substantial evidence to show that it can protect against arthropod biting. As a complementary… 28/03/2017 Background Insecticide-treated clothing (ITC) has long been used for military and outdoor recreational purposes and there is substantial evidence to show that it can protect against arthropod biting. As a complementary vector control measure, ITC could be used to address outdoor…
09/11/2016 Journal article Pneumococcal 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…
04/11/2016 Journal article Assessing demand-side barriers to uptake of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy: A qualitative study in two regions of Uganda 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… 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…
27/10/2016 Journal article An optimised age-based dosing regimen for single low-dose primaquine for blocking malaria transmission in Cambodia 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… 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…
18/10/2016 Journal article Health worker and policy-maker perspectives on use of intramuscular artesunate for pre-referral and definitive treatment of severe malaria at health posts in Ethiopia 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… 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…
12/10/2016 Journal article Health worker perspectives on the possible use of intramuscular artesunate for the treatment of severe malaria at lower-level health facilities in settings with poor access to referral facilities in Nigeria: a qualitative study Background Innovative strategies are needed to reduce malaria mortality in high burden countries like Nigeria. Given that one of the important reasons for this high malaria mortality is delay in receiving… 12/10/2016 Background Innovative strategies are needed to reduce malaria mortality in high burden countries like Nigeria. Given that one of the important reasons for this high malaria mortality is delay in receiving effective treatment, improved access to such treatment is critical. Intramuscular…
05/10/2016 Journal article Plasmodium vivax Malaria in Cambodia 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… 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…
29/09/2016 Journal article Molecular determinants of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance in Plasmodium falciparum in Nigeria and the regional emergence of dhps 431V 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… 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…
15/09/2016 Journal article The use of formative research to inform the design of a seasonal malaria chemoprevention intervention in northern Nigeria 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… 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…
06/09/2016 Journal article National Malaria Prevalence in Cambodia: Microscopy Versus Polymerase Chain Reaction Estimates 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… 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…
27/08/2016 Journal article Rational use of antibiotics by community health workers and caregivers for children with suspected pneumonia in Zambia: A cross-sectional mixed methods study 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… 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…
04/07/2016 Journal article Assessing 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 Uganda 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… 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…
18/04/2016 Journal article Reactive 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…
31/03/2016 Journal article Assessing the quality of care for pneumonia in integrated community case management: A cross-sectional mixed methods study 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,… 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,…
31/03/2016 Journal article Have you heard of schistosomiasis? Knowledge, attitudes and practices in Nampula province, Mozambique 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… 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.…
26/02/2016 Journal article Exposure 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…
16/02/2016 Journal article Positive 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…
23/11/2015 Journal article Early identification and treatment of pneumonia: A call to action 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… 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
02/10/2015 Journal article Impact of a behaviour change communication programme on net durability in eastern Uganda 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… 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…
17/09/2015 Journal article Entomological surveillance following a long-lasting insecticidal net universal coverage campaign in Midwestern Uganda 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… 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…
09/09/2015 Journal article Novel cross-border approaches to optimise identification of asymptomatic and artemisinin-resistant plasmodium infection in mobile populations crossing Cambodian borders 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… 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…
04/09/2015 Journal article Monitoring changes in malaria epidemiology and effectiveness of interventions in Ethiopia and Uganda: Beyond Garki Project baseline survey Scale-up of malaria interventions seems to have contributed to a decline in the disease, but other factors may be at play. Understanding changes in transmission and determinant factors will help… 04/09/2015 Scale-up of malaria interventions seems to have contributed to a decline in the disease, but other factors may be at play. Understanding changes in transmission and determinant factors will help to adapt control strategies accordingly.
04/09/2015 Journal article Impact of an integrated community case management programme on uptake of appropriate diarrhoea and pneumonia treatments in Uganda: A propensity score matching and equity analysis study IntroductionFollowing introduction of iCCM, data from cross-sectional household surveys were examined for socioeconomic inequalities in uptake of treatment and use of iCCM among children with a classification of pneumonia or… 04/09/2015 IntroductionFollowing introduction of iCCM, data from cross-sectional household surveys were examined for socioeconomic inequalities in uptake of treatment and use of iCCM among children with a classification of pneumonia or diarrhoea using the Erreygers’ corrected concentration index (CCI). Propensity score…
28/08/2015 Journal article Estimating the cost of referral and willingness to pay for referral to higher-level health facilities: a case series study from an integrated community case management programme in Uganda Background Integrated community case management relies on community health workers managing children with malaria, pneumonia, diarrhoea, and referring children when management is not possible. This study sought to establish the cost… 28/08/2015 Background Integrated community case management relies on community health workers managing children with malaria, pneumonia, diarrhoea, and referring children when management is not possible. This study sought to establish the cost per sick child referred to seek care from a higher-level…
25/08/2015 Journal article Evaluation of integrated community case management in eight districts of central Uganda 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… 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…
25/08/2015 Journal article High prevalence of antibiotic resistance in nasopharyngeal bacterial isolates from healthy children in rural Uganda: A cross-sectional study 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… 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…
03/07/2015 Journal article Malaria and the mobile and migrant population in Cambodia: A population movement framework to inform strategies for malaria control and elimination Background The relationships between human population movement (HPM) and health are a concern at global level. In the case of malaria, those links are crucial in relation to the spread of… 03/07/2015 Background The relationships between human population movement (HPM) and health are a concern at global level. In the case of malaria, those links are crucial in relation to the spread of drug resistant parasites and to the elimination of malaria in…
01/07/2015 Journal article Potential roles of mhealth for community health workers: Formative research with end users in Uganda and Mozambique 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… 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…
22/05/2015 Journal article Valuing the work of unpaid community health workers and exploring the incentives to volunteering in rural Africa 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 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…
30/04/2015 Journal article Using theory and formative research to design interventions to improve community health worker motivation, retention and performance in Mozambique and Uganda 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… 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…
12/04/2015 Journal article Evaluating the effect of innovative motivation and supervision approaches on community health worker performance and retention in Uganda and Mozambique: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial Background If trained, equipped and utilised, community health workers (CHWs) delivering integrated community case management for sick children can potentially reduce child deaths by 60%. However, it is essential to maintain… 12/04/2015 Background If trained, equipped and utilised, community health workers (CHWs) delivering integrated community case management for sick children can potentially reduce child deaths by 60%. However, it is essential to maintain CHW motivation and performance. The inSCALE project aims to evaluate,…
16/03/2015 Journal article The effect of single or repeated home visits on the hanging and use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets following a mass distribution campaign: A cluster randomized, controlled trial Background The study objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of commonly used post-campaign hang-up visits on the hanging and use of campaign nets. Methods A cluster-randomized trial was carried out in Uganda following… 16/03/2015 Background The study objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of commonly used post-campaign hang-up visits on the hanging and use of campaign nets. Methods A cluster-randomized trial was carried out in Uganda following an ITN distribution campaign. Five clusters (parishes, consisting of ∼11…
01/12/2014 Journal article Integrated community case management of malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea across three African countries: A qualitative study exploring lessons learnt and implications for further scale up This article authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated… 01/12/2014 This article authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated community case management in Africa. Abstract Numerous studies highlight the effectiveness…
01/12/2014 Journal article Demand generation and social mobilisation for integrated community case management (iCCM) and child health: Lessons learned from successful programmes in Niger and Mozambique This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated… 01/12/2014 This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated community case management in Africa. Aim We present the approaches used in…
01/12/2014 Journal article A proposed model to conduct process and outcome evaluations and implementation research of child health programs in Africa using integrated community case management as an example This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated… 01/12/2014 This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated community case management in Africa. Aim To use a newly devised set…
27/11/2014 Journal article What happens to lost nets: A multi-country analysis of reasons for LLIN attrition using 14 household surveys in four countries 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… 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…
11/11/2014 Journal article Multi–country analysis of routine data from integrated community case management (iCCM) programs in sub–Saharan Africa This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated… 11/11/2014 This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated community case management in Africa. Aim To identify better performing iCCM programs…
14/10/2014 Journal article Routine monitoring systems for integrated community case management programs: Lessons from 18 countries in sub–Saharan Africa This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated… 14/10/2014 This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated community case management in Africa. Integrated community case management (iCCM) programs…
10/10/2014 Journal article Setting global research priorities for integrated community case management (iCCM): Results from a CHNRI (Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative) exercise This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated… 10/10/2014 This article co-authored by Malaria Consortium staff is published by the Journal of Global Health in a Decemeber 2014 special supplement on current scientific evidence and future directions for integrated community case management in Africa. Aims To systematically identify global research gaps…
19/09/2014 Journal article Novel approaches to risk stratification to support malaria elimination: An example from Cambodia 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… 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…
14/08/2014 Journal article Evaluation of community-based systems for the surveillance of day three-positive Plasmodium falciparum cases in western Cambodia Background Delayed clearance of Plasmodium falciparum parasites is used as an operational indicator of potential artemisinin resistance. Effective community-based systems to detect P. falciparum cases remaining positive 72 hours after initiating… 14/08/2014 Background Delayed clearance of Plasmodium falciparum parasites is used as an operational indicator of potential artemisinin resistance. Effective community-based systems to detect P. falciparum cases remaining positive 72 hours after initiating treatment would be valuable for guiding case follow-up in areas…
14/08/2014 Journal article “We are supposed to take care of it”: A qualitative examination of care and repair behaviour of longlasting, insecticide-treated nets in Nasarawa State, Nigeria Background The longevity of long lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) under field conditions has important implications for malaria vector control. The behaviour of bed net users, including net care and repair, may… 14/08/2014 Background The longevity of long lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) under field conditions has important implications for malaria vector control. The behaviour of bed net users, including net care and repair, may protect or damage bed nets and impact the physical integrity…
07/07/2014 Journal article The use of counting beads to improve the classification of fast breathing in low-resource settings: a multi-country review Abstract To decrease child mortality due to common but life-threatening illnesses, community health workers (CHWs) are trained to assess, classify and treat sick children. For pneumonia, CHWs are trained to count… 07/07/2014 Abstract To decrease child mortality due to common but life-threatening illnesses, community health workers (CHWs) are trained to assess, classify and treat sick children. For pneumonia, CHWs are trained to count the respiratory rate of a child with cough and/or difficulty…
26/06/2014 Journal article Supervising community health workers in low-income countries: A review of impact and implementation issues Background Community health workers (CHWs) are an increasingly important component of health systems and programs. Despite the recognized role of supervision in ensuring CHWs are effective, supervision is often weak and… 26/06/2014 Background Community health workers (CHWs) are an increasingly important component of health systems and programs. Despite the recognized role of supervision in ensuring CHWs are effective, supervision is often weak and under-supported. Little is known about what constitutes adequate supervision and…
14/11/2013 Journal article Perceived quality of care for common childhood illnesses: facility versus community based providers in Uganda Objective To compare caretakers’ perceived quality of care (PQC) for under-fives treated for malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea by community health workers (CHWs) and primary health facility workers (PHFWs). Methods Caretaker rated PQC for… 14/11/2013 Objective To compare caretakers’ perceived quality of care (PQC) for under-fives treated for malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea by community health workers (CHWs) and primary health facility workers (PHFWs). Methods Caretaker rated PQC for children aged (2-59) months treated by either CHWs or PHFWs…
13/11/2013 Journal article Beyond Garki: monitoring changes in the epidemiology of malaria in the era of large scale interventions This is an abstract from a presentation from Beyond Garki at the MIM 2013 conference. Beyond Garki is a project led by Malaria Consortium to monitor long- and medium-term changes… 13/11/2013 This is an abstract from a presentation from Beyond Garki at the MIM 2013 conference. Beyond Garki is a project led by Malaria Consortium to monitor long- and medium-term changes in the epidemiology of the disease within the context of…
10/09/2013 Journal article Universal coverage with insecticide-treated nets - applying the revised indicators for ownership and use to the Nigeria 2010 malaria indicator survey data. Background Until recently only two indicators were used to evaluate malaria prevention with insecticide-treated nets (ITN): “proportion of households with any ITN” and “proportion of the population using an ITN last… 10/09/2013 Background Until recently only two indicators were used to evaluate malaria prevention with insecticide-treated nets (ITN): “proportion of households with any ITN” and “proportion of the population using an ITN last night”. This study explores the potential of the expanded set…
09/09/2013 Journal article Mobile Health (mHealth) Approaches and Lessons for Increased Performance and Retention of Community Health Workers in Lowand Middle-Income Countries: A Review Objective: Our aim was to conduct a thematic review of how mHealth projects have approached the intersection of cellular technology and public health in low- and middle-income countries and identify… 09/09/2013 Objective: Our aim was to conduct a thematic review of how mHealth projects have approached the intersection of cellular technology and public health in low- and middle-income countries and identify the promising practices and experiences learned, as well as novel…
19/12/2012 Journal article Malaria Policy Advisory Committee to the WHO: conclusions and recommendations of September 2012 meeting The Malaria Policy Advisory Committee to the World Health Organization met in Geneva, Switzerland from 11 to 13 September, 2012. This article provides a summary of the discussions, conclusions and… 19/12/2012 The Malaria Policy Advisory Committee to the World Health Organization met in Geneva, Switzerland from 11 to 13 September, 2012. This article provides a summary of the discussions, conclusions and recommendations from that meeting.Meeting sessions included: updated policy recommendations on…
07/11/2012 Journal article Community Acceptability and Adoption of Integrated Community Case Management in Uganda Abstract Integrated community case management (iCCM) is a recommended strategy to curb child mortality.Drawing on diffusion of innovations (DOIs), the acceptability and adoption of iCCM were qualitatively explored. Data from focus… 07/11/2012 Abstract Integrated community case management (iCCM) is a recommended strategy to curb child mortality.Drawing on diffusion of innovations (DOIs), the acceptability and adoption of iCCM were qualitatively explored. Data from focus group discussions and interviews with community members, community health workers…
07/11/2012 Journal article Integrated Community Case Management of Fever in Children under Five Using Rapid Diagnostic Tests and Respiratory Rate Counting: A Multi-Country Cluster Randomized Trial Abstract Evidence on the impact of using diagnostic tests in community case management of febrile children is limited. This effectiveness trial conducted in Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Uganda, compared a diagnostic… 07/11/2012 Abstract Evidence on the impact of using diagnostic tests in community case management of febrile children is limited. This effectiveness trial conducted in Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Uganda, compared a diagnostic and treatment package for malaria and pneumonia with presumptive treatment…
07/11/2012 Journal article Interventions to Improve Motivation and Retention of Community Health Workers Delivering Integrated Community Case Management (iCCM): Stakeholder Perceptions and Priorities Abstract Despite resurgence in the use of community health workers (CHWs) in the delivery of community case management of childhood illnesses, a paucity of evidence for effective strategies to address key… 07/11/2012 Abstract Despite resurgence in the use of community health workers (CHWs) in the delivery of community case management of childhood illnesses, a paucity of evidence for effective strategies to address key constraints of worker motivation and retention endures. This work reports…
07/11/2012 Journal article Introduction of Newborn Care within Integrated Community Case Management in Uganda 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… 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…
08/10/2012 Journal article Finding parasites and finding challenges: improved diagnostic access and trends in reported malaria and anti-malarial drug use in Livingstone district, Zambia Understanding the impact of malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) use on management of acute febrile disease at a community level, and on the consumption of anti-malarial medicines, is critical to… 08/10/2012 Understanding the impact of malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) use on management of acute febrile disease at a community level, and on the consumption of anti-malarial medicines, is critical to the planning and success of scale-up to universal parasite-based diagnosis…
01/10/2012 Journal article Focused Screening and Treatment (FSAT): A PCR-Based Strategy to Detect Malaria Parasite Carriers and Contain Drug Resistant P. falciparum, Pailin, Cambodia Recent studies have shown that Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites in Pailin province, along the border between Thailand and Cambodia, have become resistant to artemisinin derivatives. To better define the epidemiology… 01/10/2012 Recent studies have shown that Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites in Pailin province, along the border between Thailand and Cambodia, have become resistant to artemisinin derivatives. To better define the epidemiology of P.falciparum populations and to assess the risk of the…
11/07/2012 Journal article Community Health Workers Use Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) Safely and Accurately: Results of a Longitudinal Study in Zambia 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… 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…
07/06/2012 Journal article A stitch in time: a cross-sectional survey looking at long lasting insecticide-treated bed net ownership, utilization and attrition in SNNPR, Ethiopia 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… 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…
20/04/2012 Journal article Programme level implementation of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) use: outcomes and cost of training health workers at lower level health care facilities in Uganda The training of health workers in the use of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) is an important component of a wider strategy to improve parasite-based malaria diagnosis at lower level… 20/04/2012 The training of health workers in the use of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) is an important component of a wider strategy to improve parasite-based malaria diagnosis at lower level health care facilities (LLHFs) where microscopy is not readily available…
20/04/2012 Journal article Access, acceptability and utilization of community health workers using diagnostics for case management of fever in Ugandan children: a cross-sectional study Use of diagnostics in integrated community case management (iCCM) of fever is recognized as an important step in improving rational use of drugs and quality of care for febrile under-five… 20/04/2012 Use of diagnostics in integrated community case management (iCCM) of fever is recognized as an important step in improving rational use of drugs and quality of care for febrile under-five children. This study conducted in the Ugandan District of Iganga,…
10/04/2012 Journal article Prevalence of Trachoma in Unity State, South Sudan: Results from a Large-Scale Population-Based Survey and Potential Implications for Further Surveys 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 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…
01/02/2012 Journal article Can Universal Insecticide-treated Net Campaigns Achieve Equity in Coverage and Use? The Case of Northern Nigeria 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… 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…
23/01/2012 Journal article Early Experiences on the Feasibility, Acceptability, and Use of Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests at Peripheral Health Centres in Uganda-insights into some Barriers and Facilitators While feasibility of new health technologies in well-resourced healthcare settings is extensively documented, it is largely unknown in low-resourced settings. Uganda’s decision to deploy and scale up malaria rapid diagnostic… 23/01/2012 While feasibility of new health technologies in well-resourced healthcare settings is extensively documented, it is largely unknown in low-resourced settings. Uganda’s decision to deploy and scale up malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) in public health facilities and at the community…
18/01/2012 Journal article Plasmodium–Helminth Coinfection and Its Sources of Heterogeneity Across East Africa 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 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…
18/10/2011 Journal article Placental Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria Infection: Operational accuracy of HRP2 rapid diagnostic tests in a malaria endemic setting 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 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…
13/10/2011 Journal article Evidence for a Useful Life of More Than Three Years for a Polyester-based Long-Lasting Insecticidal Mosquito Net in Western Uganda 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 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…
11/10/2011 Journal article The Cost of Antibiotic Mass Drug Administration for Trachoma Control in a Remote Area of South Sudan Trachoma is one of a group of so-called "neglected tropical diseases" (NTDs) for which safe and effective treatments are available. The International Trachoma Initiative oversees donation of the antibiotic azithromycin… 11/10/2011 Trachoma is one of a group of so-called "neglected tropical diseases" (NTDs) for which safe and effective treatments are available. The International Trachoma Initiative oversees donation of the antibiotic azithromycin to endemic countries. Delivery of this drug to communities affected…
01/09/2011 Journal article Accuracy of circulating cathodic antigen tests for rapid mapping of Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium infections in Southern Sudan Programmes aiming to control or eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are being scaled up in many parts of the world. As part of this ongoing effort, many countries still need… 01/09/2011 Programmes aiming to control or eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are being scaled up in many parts of the world. As part of this ongoing effort, many countries still need to complete mapping of their NTD endemic areas. This study…
15/07/2011 Journal article The Impact of Mass Drug Administration and Long-lasting Insecticidal Net Distribution on Wuchereria Bancrofti Infection in Humans and Mosquitoes: an Observational Study in Northern Uganda Lymphatic filariasis (LF) in Uganda is caused by Wuchereira bancrofti and transmitted by anopheline mosquitoes. The mainstay of elimination has been annual mass drug administration (MDA) with ivermectin and albendazole,… 15/07/2011 Lymphatic filariasis (LF) in Uganda is caused by Wuchereira bancrofti and transmitted by anopheline mosquitoes. The mainstay of elimination has been annual mass drug administration (MDA) with ivermectin and albendazole, targeted to endemic districts, but has been sporadic and incomplete…
14/07/2011 Journal article Can lay community health workers be trained to use diagnostics to distinguish and treat malaria and pneumonia in children? Lessons from rural Uganda Malaria and pneumonia are leading causes of morbidity and mortality among under-five children in Africa. Malaria alone accounts for 21-26% of under-five mortality in Uganda (WHO 2006) with another 17-26%… 14/07/2011 Malaria and pneumonia are leading causes of morbidity and mortality among under-five children in Africa. Malaria alone accounts for 21-26% of under-five mortality in Uganda (WHO 2006) with another 17-26% attributed to pneumonia. In spite of available cost-effective interventions for…
30/06/2011 Journal article Mortality after Fluid Bolus in African Children with Severe Infection 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 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…
01/03/2011 Journal article Case Management of Severe Malaria - A Forgotten Practice: Experiences from Health Facilities in Uganda 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… 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…
25/01/2011 Journal article A Research Agenda for Malaria Eradication: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Surveillance 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 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…
16/12/2010 Journal article The Clinical Impact of Combining Intermittent Preventive Treatment with Home Management of Malaria in Children Aged Below 5 Years: Cluster Randomised Trial WHO (2009) estimates that the global incidence of malaria is between 190 and 311 million cases annually, resulting in approximately 850 000 deaths. Morbidity and mortality from malaria is greatest… 16/12/2010 WHO (2009) estimates that the global incidence of malaria is between 190 and 311 million cases annually, resulting in approximately 850 000 deaths. Morbidity and mortality from malaria is greatest in sub-Saharan Africa, with children under 5 years of age…
18/11/2010 Journal article How Many Mosquito Nets Are Needed to Achieve Universal Coverage? Recommendations for the Quantification and Allocation of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets for Mass Campaigns Long-lasting insecticidal nets are an effective tool for malaria prevention, and "universal coverage" with such nets is increasingly the goal of national malaria control programmes. However, national level campaigns in… 18/11/2010 Long-lasting insecticidal nets are an effective tool for malaria prevention, and "universal coverage" with such nets is increasingly the goal of national malaria control programmes. However, national level campaigns in several countries have run out of nets in the course…
15/11/2010 Journal article Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy: Limited Ability of Plasmodium Falciparum Pfcrt, Pfmdr1, and Pfnhe1 Polymorphisms to Predict Quinine In Vitro Sensitivity or Clinical Effectiveness in Uganda Quinine is a standard drug for treating severe malaria in Africa, and it is also increasingly used to treat uncomplicated disease. However, failures of quinine therapy are common, and it… 15/11/2010 Quinine is a standard drug for treating severe malaria in Africa, and it is also increasingly used to treat uncomplicated disease. However, failures of quinine therapy are common, and it is unknown if failures in Africa are due to drug…
27/10/2010 Journal article Performance of three multi-species Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Diagnosis of Plasmodium Falciparum and Plasmodium Vivax Malaria in Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia Malaria transmission in Ethiopia is unstable and variable, caused by both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. The Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) is scaling up parasitological diagnosis of malaria at… 27/10/2010 Malaria transmission in Ethiopia is unstable and variable, caused by both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. The Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) is scaling up parasitological diagnosis of malaria at all levels of the health system; at peripheral health facilities…
01/10/2010 Journal article Trachoma Rapid Assessments in Unity and Northern Bahr-el-Ghazal States, Southern Sudan 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 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…
17/08/2010 Journal article Targeting Trachoma Control through Risk Mapping: The Example of Southern Sudan Trachoma, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide and a major cause of blindness in Southern Sudan. However, the trachoma distribution in Southern… 17/08/2010 Trachoma, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide and a major cause of blindness in Southern Sudan. However, the trachoma distribution in Southern Sudan has only been partially established and many communities in…
13/07/2010 Journal article Community Acceptability of Use of Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Malaria by Community Health Workers in Uganda 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 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…
13/07/2010 Journal article Integrated Surveys of Neglected Tropical Diseases in Southern Sudan: How Much Do They Cost and Can They Be Refined? 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 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…
12/07/2010 Journal article Use of RDTs to Improve Malaria Diagnosis and Fever Case Management at Primary Health Care Facilities in Uganda Early and accurate diagnosis of malaria followed by prompt treatment reduces the risk of severe disease in malaria endemic regions. Presumptive treatment of malaria is widely practised to reduce malaria… 12/07/2010 Early and accurate diagnosis of malaria followed by prompt treatment reduces the risk of severe disease in malaria endemic regions. Presumptive treatment of malaria is widely practised to reduce malaria where microscopy or rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are not readily…
29/06/2010 Journal article How to (or Not to) Integrate Vertical Programmes for the Control of Major Neglected Tropical Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa 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 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,…
18/06/2010 Journal article System Effectiveness of a Targeted Free Mass Distribution of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets in Zanzibar, Tanzania Insecticide-treated nets (ITN) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) are important means of malaria prevention. Although there is consensus regarding their importance, there is uncertainty as to which delivery strategies are… 18/06/2010 Insecticide-treated nets (ITN) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) are important means of malaria prevention. Although there is consensus regarding their importance, there is uncertainty as to which delivery strategies are optimal for dispensing these life saving interventions. A targeted mass…
20/04/2010 Journal article Costs and Effects of two Public Sector Delivery Channels for Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets in Uganda 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 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…
24/03/2010 Journal article Evaluation of Interceptor Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets in Eight Communities in Liberia 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 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…
01/03/2010 Journal article Review of delivery strategies for insecticide treated mosquito nets – are we ready for the next phase of malaria control efforts? The renewed interest in malaria elimination using long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) for malaria prevention has shifted from targeted distributions of vulnerable groups to universal access. Many countries are now… 01/03/2010 The renewed interest in malaria elimination using long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) for malaria prevention has shifted from targeted distributions of vulnerable groups to universal access. Many countries are now reaching high net coverage levels and need to consider options…
01/02/2010 Journal article An Assessment of Lot Quality Assurance Sampling to Evaluate Malaria Outcome Indicators: Extending Malaria Indicator Surveys 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… 01/02/2010 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 on…
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