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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
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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 >>>
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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
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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>>>
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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 MoreResearch PapersWater, sanitation, and intimate partner violence: Insights from Kibra Slums, Nairobi
Intimate partner violence (IPV) poses significant health and social challenges for women, particularly in slums characterised by limited access to basic amenities like water and sanitation facilities. This study aimed to investigate the association between accessibility of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities and IPV among women in Kibra, Nairobi county, Kenya. Read more >>>>
Read MoreResearch PapersCluster randomised trial of a health system strengthening approach applying person-centred communication for the prevention of female genital mutilation in Guinea, Kenya and Somalia
There is limited evidence on effective health systems interventions for preventing female genital mutilation (FGM). This study tested a two-level intervention package at primary care applying person-centred communication (PCC) for FGM prevention. Read More >>>
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