Factors associated with compliance to community-directed treatment with Ivermectin for onchocerciasis control in Kaffa zone, Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional survey
3rd World Conference on Parasitology & Pathogenesis
July 12-13, 2017 Chicago, USA

Daniel Asfaw Erku

University of Gondar, Ethiopia

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Bacteriol Parasitol

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: Although Ivermectin is distributed free of charge through the African Program for Onchocerciasis Control (APOC), not all eligible individuals within communities receives the annual treatment. There are individuals who do not comply with the annual mass treatment, which contributes to the continuity for disease transmission. The purpose of this study is to determine factors associated with compliance to Community Directed Treatment with Ivermectin (CDTI) and provides a basis for trying to understand how best to sustain long-term compliance. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Kaffa zone, Ethiopia September 1 to 30, 2016. Systematic random sampling was used to select head of households and structured, pre-tested questionnaire was used to interview the study participants. Descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate logistic regression tools were performed to assess the effects of independent variables on the outcome variable. Findings: Majority of respondents in this study (79.8%) reported that they completed Ivermectin. Significantly higher rate of treatment compliance was reported by participants�?? age �?�35 years, participants who stayed in the area for more than 10 years, participants who perceive that they are at risk of contracting the disease, participants who perceive community drug distributors (CDDs) are doing their work well and participants who know at least one CDD in their village. Conclusion & Significance: The majority of the study participants in the present study complied with Ivermectin treatment. Yet, intervention packages should consider factors such as age, residence duration and community�??s perception of the disease to improve adherence.

Biography :

Daniel Asfaw Erku has completed his BPharm from University of Gondar, Ethiopia. Currently, he is working as an Assistant Lecturer and a Director of Drug Information Center at Gondar University Referral Hospital. He has published more than 15 original research articles in peer-reviewed journals. He was also awarded by Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Association in 2014/15 for his outstanding academic achievements in pharmacy.

Email: Daniel.asfaw05@gmail.com