The one health approach: combating the persistent Visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-azar) outbreaks in Isiolo County, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis has remained a public health problem in Kenya despite Ministry of Health’s numerous efforts. This is associated with absence of a multidisciplinary response to outbreaks. We intended to analyze community’s prioritization of causes of Visceral leishmaniasis as well as community awareness on the disease prevention and control. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study design conducted between September 2023 to December 2023. 433 households’ heads, 23 community leaders and health workers were study informants. Results: Study findings showed clear proximity of human settlements and socioeconomic activities to the vector sandfly breeding sites. Environmental factors augmented by effects of climate change including flooding and high temperatures have sustained transmission including emergence of the disease in new foci. Low socio-economic status, environmental factors and climate change effects showed highly significant correlations with the disease and interplay with one another. Study results show lack of strategies and policies that promote effective prevention and control of Kala-azar. Stakeholders’ analysis revealed limited community awareness regarding roles played by different individuals in Kala-azar prevention, control, and elimination. Conclusions: There is a major gap in cooperation of partners in human, animal, and environmental health for achievements in public health strategies, therefore One Health approach should be adopted for integrated prevention, control, and elimination. The approach will sustainably improve and promote health while addressing the entire spectrum of disease control, including detection, preparedness, response, and management in addition to disease prevention averting this terrible disease from resurfacing in the future.