Employing SBCC as a catalyzed in reversing malaria deaths in Kisumu County, Kenya

Summary:

Kenya experiences regular malaria outbreaks which lead to high mortality especially among children under five years. Kisumu County remains one of the regions highly affected due to its proximity to large water body and tropical climate which provides conducive breeding ground for mosquitoes. Use of social behavior change strategies have proved effective in tackling community epidemic by increasing knowledge on prevention and treatment. The objective of the project was to increase utilization of appropriate malaria interventions. The project employed combined strategies to address myths through small group sessions, mass media communications and IEC materials. The results have shown declining cases of malaria in the intervention areas, increased net use, adherence to medication and improved health seeking behavior. Results confirms the need to engage communities in addressing their own health needs by tackling myths, fears and empowering them to make informed choices.

Background/Objectives

It is estimated, that about 70 per cent of Kenyans are at risk for malaria (KMIS 2015). The disease accounts for about 18 percent of outpatient consultations and 6 percent of hospital admission. With estimated 6.7 million new clinical cases and 4000 deaths occurring particularly among children annually, puts malaria as a major health burden for Kenya. Kisumu County lies within malaria endemic zone according to national classification, with high incidences throughout the year. Malaria Control Program in collaboration with partners in July 2019 selected one of the seven sub-counties, Seme Sub-County with the highest malaria parasite prevalence

Description Of Intervention And/or Methods/Design

The project was implemented in six Community Health Units (CHUs) and a total of fifty community health volunteers (CHVs) selected under the support supervision of Community Health Assistants (CHAs) , Sub-County Malaria Control Coordinator (SCMCC) and Sub-County Health Promotion Officer (SCHPO). The intervention involved a community challenge process through co-creation that aimed at identifying challenges communities face in relation to disease prevention, treatment and control. The project further developed effective health messages that have been delivered through small group sessions, radio spots, and Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials. CHVs acts as agents of change to trigger behavior change at the household level. The CHUs are equipped with rapid diagnostic test kits for community diagnosis, malaria drugs for management of mild cases and referral tools for linking patients with severe malaria to health facilities to seek specialized attention.

Results/Lessons Learned

The project reached 3,000 households, 4,500 Small Group Communication sessions conducted, 500 pregnant women reached and 10 IPTp1 referrals conducted. The project has seen increased nets use, declining malaria cases since detection and treatment is initiated at household level. It was also reported that proper medication and adherence to prescription has also improved. CHVs reporting improved knowledge by community on net care. Data capture on tools improved. Increased knowledge on IPTp

Discussion/Implications For The Field

The project has strengthened the need for community engagement in decision making to ensure optimal utilization of health services. Through IPC, CHVs are able to address myths such as LLINs bring bed bugs which in turn increases net uptake and use, increased risk perception, therefore improving health seeking behavior. IPC guide has also been a good aid to the CHVs to perfect message delivery.

Abstract submitted by: 

Jeremiah  Ongwara

Denis Ojuok