Roles of community drug distributors in health and development activities post-onchocerciasis elimination in Uganda

Résumé

Introduction Onchocerciasis (river blindness) is a parasitic disease transmitted by black flies and targeted for elimination through preventive chemotherapy – specifically community-directed ivermectin treatment, in which community drug distributors (CDDs) serve as vital links between health systems and populations targeted for treatment. Little is known about CDD roles once elimination objectives are achieved and community-directed interventions cease. Methods This mixed-methods study examined post-treatment roles among former CDDs in four previously onchocerciasis-endemic foci in Uganda, Bwindi, Mt. Elgon, Nyagak-Bondo, and Nyamugasani, using surveys administered to 1,580 former CDDs and qualitative interviews conducted in October and November 2023. Results More than half (56.3%) of respondents had participated in health or development activities before serving as a CDD, and over two-thirds (70.6%) continued such activities after ivermectin distribution ended. The most commonly reported activities were assisting with mosquito net distribution, sanitation improvement programs and general health education. Continued engagement was significantly (p<0.05) associated with older age, higher education, marital status, prior volunteer experience, and longer duration of service, with those serving five years or more significantly more likely to remain active. Discussion Former CDDs remain an experienced and motivated workforce in post-onchocerciasis settings, representing a valuable resource for sustaining community health and development.

Citer ce document

Accès au document

Texte intégral en lecture en ligne, réservé aux abonnés SPHAERO et aux membres de l'institution. Se connecter

Auteur(s)

Statistiques

Consultations : 2

Téléchargements : 0