We got 407 search results
-
Research Papers
The Effect of PHC Digital Innovations and Performance-Based Incentives on Uptake of Maternal and Child Health Services in Selected Pilot Sites in Kenya
While global efforts have led to a decline in maternal and neonatal mortality, Sub-Saharan Africa continues to face disproportionately high rates, remaining far above the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets. In Kenya, as the 2030 SDG deadline approaches, the gap in maternal, neonatal, and child health services remains significant. Addressing these challenges is critical to improving Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health (MNCH) outcomes.This study explores how integration of digital health innovations into the MNCH chain of service delivery affects the quality of MNCH care within the sele
Read More -
Research Papers
Internet self-efficacy moderates the association of information technology ability with successful ageing among older employees in three African samples
The literature suggests that two distinct competencies [i.e., information technology ability (ITA), and internet self-efficacy] are necessary for the effective use of information technologies for successful ageing, but no study has examined the association of these skills on successful ageing and its domains (i.e., illness avoidance, functioning, and engagement with life). This study investigated whether Internet Self-Efficacy (ISE) moderates the potential association of ITA with successful ageing. The study adopted a cross-sectional design based on the Strengthening the Reporting of Observati
Read More -
Research Papers
Diagnostics for detection and surveillance of priority epidemic-prone diseases in Africa: an assessment of testing capacity and laboratory strengthening needs
In 2023, Africa faced 180 public health emergencies, with 90% linked to infectious diseases and 75% to zoonotic origins. A self-assessment survey conducted among 15 African Union Member States revealed significant disparities in diagnostic capacity for epidemic-prone diseases. While testing for diseases like COVID-19, polio, and measles has improved due to prior investments, capacity remains limited for others such as dengue and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. Many countries are not yet utilizing multiplex testing, which could enhance diagnostic efficiency. Key challenges include limited lab
Read More -
Research Papers
Epidemiology of epilepsy in Wulu County, an onchocerciasis-endemic area in South Sudan
We sought to investigate the epidemiology of epilepsy in Wulu County (Lakes State, South Sudan), and document the onchocerciasis transmission status in the study villages. Read More >>>
Read More -
Research Papers
Cytokine profiles, blood parasite load and clinical features of visceral leishmaniasis in West Pokot County, Kenya
A study conducted in West Pokot County, Kenya, assessed the immunological and clinical response of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients undergoing treatment with sodium stibogluconate and paromomycin (SSG-PM). Patients presented with typical VL symptoms such as splenomegaly, weight loss, pancytopenia, and anemia, and had a median blood parasite load of 2.6 × 10⁴ parasite equivalents/mL. These findings support the effectiveness of SSG-PM and highlight cytokine profiling as a potential tool for monitoring VL treatment response. Read More
-
Research Papers
Community perception of epilepsy and its treatment in onchocerciasis-endemic villages of Maridi county, western equatoria state, South Sudan
To assess the community’s perception of epilepsy and its treatment in onchocerciasis-endemic villages of Maridi County, Western Equatoria State, South Sudan. The study was conducted prior to the setting up of a community-based intervention to manage the important disease burden caused by onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy in these villages. Read More>>>
Read More -
Research Papers
Procedure for Handling and Storage of Onchocerca volvulus Microfilariae Obtained from Skin Snips for Downstream Genetic Work
WHO and endemic countries target elimination of transmission of Onchocerca volvulus, the parasite causing onchocerciasis. Population genetic analysis of O. volvulus may provide data to improve the evidence base for decisions on when, where, and for how long to deploy which interventions and post-intervention surveillance to achieve elimination. Development of necessary methods and tools requires parasites suitable for genetic analysis. Based on our experience with microfilariae obtained from different coll Read MoreResearch PapersEvaluating epilepsy management in an onchocerciasis-endemic area: Case of Maridi, South Sudan
The epilepsy prevalence in Maridi County, South Sudan, in 2018 was 43.8 (95% CI: 40.9–47.0) per 1000 persons; 85.2% of the identified persons with epilepsy (PWE) met the criteria of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy. To address this health problem, an epilepsy clinic was established at Maridi County Hospital in 2020. In August 2023, the impact of the clinic on the lives of PWE and their families was evaluated. Read More >>>
Read More
