Arba Minch Town Research Articles

High human blood meal index of mosquitoes in Arba Minch town, southwest Ethiopia: an implication for urban mosquito-borne disease transmission

Unplanned human population shifts in urban areas are expected to increase the prevalence of vector-borne diseases. This study aimed to investigate mosquito species composition, blood meal sources, and malaria vectors in an urban area. Indoor-resting adult mosquitoes were collected using Prokopack and host-seeking mosquitoes using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention light traps in Arba Minch town. Larval collection from artificial containers was done in those houses selected for adult mosquito collection. Anopheles adults collected and emerged from larvae were identified morphologically using a taxonomic key. ELISA was used to identify blood meal sources in freshly fed Anopheles and Culex mosquitoes, and CSP of Anopheles mosquitoes. A total of 16,756 female mosquitoes were collected. Of these, 93% (15,571) were Culex, 6% (1016) were Anopheles, and 1% (169) were Aedes mosquitoes. Out of the 130 adult mosquitoes that were raised from larvae collected from the containers, 20% were An. rhodesiensis, while the remaining 80% were Aedes mosquitoes. Out of 823 mosquitoes tested for blood meal origins, 86.3% (710/823) tested positive for human blood, 2.2% (18/823) tested positive for bovine blood, and 11.5% (95/823) were negative for human and bovine antibodies. Anopheles gambiae complex had a human blood meal index (HBI) of 50% (90/180; CI 42.3–57.5%) and a bovine blood meal index (BBI) of only 0.5% (95% CI 0.01–3.1%). Culex HBI was 96.7% (620/641), and its BBI index was 2.4% (15/641). While it was low (0.8%) in Culex, the proportion of An. gambiae complex with unidentified blood meal sources was 49.5% (95 CI% 41.9–56.9%). Among the 1016 Anopheles mosquitoes tested, a single An. gambiae complex (0.1%; 1/1016) was positive for P. vivax CSP. The high HBI indicates frequent contact between humans and vectors. To reduce human exposure, personal protection tools should be implemented.

Reported self-care practice toward prevention of puerperal sepsis and associated factors among postnatal mothers: Community-based cross-sectional study.

Puerperal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in low-income countries, which can affect sustainable development goals. Even though it is a preventable problem through maternal self-care practices, maternal-reported self-care practices regarding puerperal sepsis were under-researched in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the maternal reported self-care practice and associated factors among postnatal mothers for the prevention of puerperal sepsis. The study aimed to assess the reported self-care practice of postnatal mothers in Arba Minch town toward the prevention of puerperal sepsis and its associated factors. A community-based cross-sectional study was employed from 1st to 30th May 2022. Study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected by the Open Data Kit tool and exported to SPSS version 26 for further analysis. Both crude and adjusted odds ratios with a 95% CI were calculated, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant factors. Of a total of 423 postpartum mothers, 417 participated, making a response rate of 98.5%. The study revealed that 45.6% (95% CI: 41.2%, 50.1%) of postnatal mothers had good reported self-care practices toward the prevention of puerperal sepsis. Tertiary educational level (AOR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.43, 4.59), multiparity (AOR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.74), and having a good awareness of puerperal sepsis prevention (AOR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.40, 3.37) were significantly associated at a p-value less than 0.05. This study revealed that less than half of postnatal mothers reported good self-care practices. Healthcare providers and all stakeholders should focus on strategies to improve self-care practice during antenatal and postnatal care and at a community level, with a special focus on postnatal mothers with no formal education and multiparous mothers.

Pregnant mothers intention to use postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device and its associated factors in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2022

IntroductionPostpartum intra-uterine device use contributes to the happiness and health of women, children, and families who are of reproductive age. Out of the 210 million pregnancies that happen worldwide each year, about 80 million are unintended. Increasing postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device intention can help reduce unplanned pregnancies and the incidence of abortion. Methodsa cross-sectional study was conducted in pregnant mother’s home from March to April 2022 to assess the intension to use PPIUCD and to identify factors. Through simple random selection, 482 pregnant women were surveyed using a pretested, structured questionnaire and in-person interviews. Four randomly selected Kebeles were involved in the study by using simple random sampling. The data was imported into Epi-data version 4.6.0.2 and then analysed using Stata version 14. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify associated factors. Results482 pregnant women have participated in the study, and 98.5 % of them responded. 13.7 % (95 % CI: 11.0–17.0) of the participants stated that they planned to use an intra-uterine devices after giving birth. The intention to use a postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device had a significant association with the participants' educational level (AOR = 4.69; 95 % CI: 1.31–16.81), moderate level (AOR = 3.77; 95 % CI: 1.90–7.50), high knowledge (AOR = 4.82; 95 % CI: 1.96–11.87), and favorable attitude (AOR = 7.26; 95 % CI: 3.39–15.52), according to the results of the multivariable analysis. ConclusionIn Ethiopia, compared to earlier research, there was a decreased intention to use postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices. Encouraging the use of postpartum intrauterine contraceptives for social and behavioural changes can be more effective.

Maternal satisfaction on delivery service and associated factors among mothers delivered at Arba Minch town governmental health facilities, South Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

To assess maternal satisfaction with delivery service and associated factors among mothers delivered at Arba Minch town governmental health facilities, South Ethiopia, 2022. A facility-based cross-sectional design study was conducted from 1 April to 30 June 2022. The total sample size was 320. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select mothers. Data were entered using Epi-data Version 3.1 and exported to SPSS Version 25 for analysis. Multicollinearity was considered using a variance inflation factor. The goodness of fit test was done using the Hosmer-Lemeshow model. Binary logistic regression was done, and variables with a p-value of <0.25 in the bivariable analysis were taken into the multivariable analysis. Statistically significant was declared at a p-value of <0.05 with an adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. The maternal satisfaction with delivery service was 75.0% (95% CI: 70.3%-79.4%). Being urban residence (AOR: 4.15, 95% CI: 1.87-9.19), absence of anemia during pregnancy (AOR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.07-5.29), absence of antepartum hemorrhage (AOR: 2.96, 95% CI: 1.35-6.50), induction to onset labor (AOR: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02-0.39), female sex of the newborn (AOR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15-0.72), absence of fetal distress during labor (AOR: 5.01, 95% CI: 1.69-14.86), absence of intrauterine meconium release (AOR: 2.77, 95% CI: 1.02-7.63), and presence of privacy measures during examination (AOR: 3.11, 95% CI: 1.37-7.04) were associated with maternal satisfaction. About 8 in 10 mothers are satisfied with the delivery service. Residence, anemia during pregnancy, antepartum hemorrhage, the onset of labor, sex of the newborn, fetal distress during labor, intrauterine meconium release, and privacy measures during examination are associated with maternal satisfaction with delivery services. Therefore, preventing anemia during pregnancy and antepartum hemorrhage, minimizing induction of labor, preventing fetal distress and intrauterine meconium release during labor, and taking privacy measures during examination might enhance maternal satisfaction with delivery services.

Magnitude of extended-spectrum β-lactamase and carbapenemase producing Enterobacteriaceae among commonly vended street foods in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia

BackgroundThe rising prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESβL-PE) in street foods poses a significant risk to human health due to its epidemiological significance. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the magnitude of foodborne Enterobacteriaceae that produce carbapenemase and ESβL, as well as their patterns of antibiotic resistance, in the studied area.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was carried out from January 1st, 2023, to February 30th, 2023. One hundred randomly chosen street-vended food items (one hundred grams of each food item) were aseptically collected, and aliquots of 0.1 ml from the homogenized (25 g of samples into 225 ml of buffered peptone water (BPW)) were inoculated on MacConkey agar and Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate Agar (XLD). Enterobacteriaceae isolates were identified using various biochemical tests. ESβL and carbapenemase were first screened by indicator cephalosporins and carbapenem antibiotics, respectively. ESβL and carbapenemase were confirmed by a double-disc synergy test and modified carbapenem inactivation methods, respectively. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was used for the antimicrobial-resistant test.ResultsA total of 112 Enterobacteriaceae belonging to six different genera were isolated. E. coli was attributed 39 (34.8%), followed by Citrobacter spp. 22 (19.6%) and K. pneumoniae 18 (16.1%), with only 8 (7.1%) isolated Salmonella spp. About 15.2% (n = 17) and 8.9% (n = 10) of Enterobacteriaceae were phenotypically confirmed to be extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESβL) and carbapenemase producers, respectively. The highest percentage of ESβL-producing isolates was attributed to K. pneumoniae (n = 5), E. coli (n = 4), and Enterobacter spp. (n = 3). Proteus spp. and Salmonella spp. isolates were carbapenemase-negative. All carbapenemase-positive isolates were found to be ESβL-producers. 70.6% (12/17) of ESβL-producing Enterobacteriaceae were found to be multidrug-resistant (MDR).ConclusionA considerable number of multidrug-resistant ESβL and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae were identified, suggesting that street foods may be a potential source of MDR foodborne infections. Consequently, it is important to conduct routine examinations of street food items and track trends in medication resistance.

Frequency of digital vaginal examination and associated factors among mothers admitted to labor and delivery wards in public health facilities of Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia.

To assess the frequency of digital examination and its associated factors among laboring mothers in public health facilities in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia. Digital vaginal examination (DVE) is the commonly applied clinical assessment method used to discover the progress of labor and delivery. However, frequent DVE may not be free of risk for maternal and neonatal health, and pain during intrapartum care. An institution-based descriptive cross-sectional study was employed from May 3 to July 6, 2022. Study participants were selected by a serial sampling method. Data were entered into epi data version 7.2 and exported to SPSS v.25 for data analysis. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to assess associations between study variables. Statistical significance was declared at a P value less than 0.05. A total of 374 women responded to the interview, making a response rate of 98.4%. In all, 230 (61.5%) of the laboring mothers underwent five or more DVE. Being a primipara, being in latent phase at admission, having augmentation of labor, prolonged labor, being admitted with intact membranes, and vacuum delivery showed significant associations with frequent DVE. Frequency of DVE among laboring mothers is relatively high in the study area. The frequent DVE were mainly caused by healthcare provider's interventions to shorten the time of labor. Emphasis on training and monitoring the practice of healthcare givers would be helpful to mitigate this problem.

Physical activity status among adolescents in Southern Ethiopia: A mixed methods study.

Adolescents physical activity is associated with current and future health benefits, reduction of cardio-vascular risk factors, improved bone mineral density, and mental health. The aim of the current study is to assess physical activity status and its factors among adolescents in Arba Minch and Jinka towns, Southern Ethiopia. The study was conducted on 1255 randomly selected schools adolescents of Arba Minch and Jinka town by employing a mixed method. The qualitative data was obtained by Focus Group Discussion. Multiple linear regressions were done to identify factors affecting physical activity. Codes, sub-categories, and main categories were derived from the transcripts and presented in narrative ways to describe adolescent student's perception on physical activity, its barriers and facilitators by comparing with quantitative findings. The mean physical activity level was 2.08 (95% CI: 2.04-2.12). A student's self-perception about being physically active, being a member of a sport or fitness team, and engaging in after-school activity to earn money, being older, sex, a self-perception of being healthy, higher levels of vegetable and fruit consumption, having someone who encouraged physical activity, perceiving one's family as being active, self-perception of not being overweight and attending schools that have a sports/playground were factors associated with physical activity. The qualitative finding showed a related finding. Poor awareness on the recommended physical activity, benefits of physical activity, lack of interest, restrictions from family members, peers and the community, uncomfortable environment were barriers to physical activity. The physical activity level of adolescents was low. Age, sex, a positive self-perception about PA and general health, and perception about one's family PA, healthy eating practice, and the presence of role model were associated factors. Lack of self-motivation, interest and family restrictions were barriers to physical activity. PA promotion should be made by incorporating PA into school health programs and strengthening the existing school curriculum.

TIMELY INITIATION OF POSTPARTUM MODERN CONTRACEPTIVE UTILIZATION AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG WOMEN OF CHILD BEARING AGE IN ARBA MINCH TOWN PUBLIC HEALTH FACILITIES, GAMO ZONE, ETHIOPIA

ABSTRACT Background: Most the women average time to first postpartum ovulation is 45 days and can occur as early as 25 postpartum days (1). But, many women do not recognize that they are at risk of pregnancy during this period. Most postnatal women are exposed to pregnancy, by seven to nine months after delivery up till now have not obtained contraceptives (2). Objectives: - To assess the timely initiation of postpartum modern contraceptive utilization and associated factors among women of childbearing age in Arba Minch Town health facilities. The method:-An institutional-based cross-sectional study was employed using pretested interviewer-administered questions among 574 interviewees. The systematic random sampling method was done from April 15 to May 15, 2020. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done. P-value &lt; 0.05 was used to consider as statically significant variables. Results: The magnitude of timely initiation of postpartum contraceptive utilization was found to be 260 (45.3%) 95% [CI: 40.1-49.0]. The educational level of respondents, (AOR=0.46; 95% [CI: 0.31-0.71], No of ANC visit [AOR=2.913,95% [CI:1.39-6.07], counseling of postpartum family planning after the last delivery (AOR=2.29,95% [CI:1.46-3.58], couple discussed (AOR=4.94,95%[CI:3.01-8.09], resumption of sexual intercourse (AOR=1.74, 95% [CI: 1.36-2.77] and return of menses (AOR=(6.6, 95% [CI:1.91-22.78) were significantly associated variables with timely initiation of postpartum contraceptive utilization. Conclusion: less than half of the study participants have timely initiated modern contraceptives in Arba Minch Town. Family planning programs should be established incorporated at antenatal and postnatal follow-up actively. Keywords: Timely initiation, modern contraceptive,

Factors associated with poor sleep quality among construction workers in Arba Minch town, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

Sleep is critical for human physical and cognitive health. Even though poor sleep quality had a major negative impact on workers' health and safety, there is a scarcity of study that attempts to demonstrate its magnitude and causative factors in labor-intensive environments. A cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 423 individuals were selected using a simple random sampling technique, starting from April 1, 2020 to May 1, 2020. Interviews were administered using the validated and pretested Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) tool. EpiData version 4.4.3.1 was used for data entry and SPSS version 25 for analysis. To associate factors with poor sleep quality binary logistic regression model was fitted at 95% confidence interval (CI). A p < 0.25 and p < 0.05 were used to declare association in bivariable and multivariable analysis, respectively. A total of 415 building construction workers take part in this study, with a response rate of 98.1%. A PSQI global score showed 66.3% (95% CI: [0.63, 0.71]) of construction workers suffering from poor sleep quality. Working hours, work experience, previous injury status, managerial support on occupational safety and health, cigarette smoking, and job satisfaction were the factors that were associated with poor sleep quality significantly. Two-thirds of construction workers suffer from poor sleep quality. Risk factors include shorter working years, longer working hours, prior injury, lack of managerial support, cigarette smoking, and low job satisfaction. Efficient health education and promotion through taking the identified associated factors into account could help reduce poor sleep quality.

Diaper dermatitis and associated factors among 1–24 months children visiting public health facilities of Arba Minch town, Gamo zone, southern Ethiopia

BackgroundDiaper dermatitis is one of infants and toddlers' most common skin diseases; it accounts for 10–20 % of all skin diseases and 25 % of pediatric dermatology visits. Diaper dermatitis also increases parents' mental health problems and compromises the quality of life. Despite its ill outcome, diaper dermatitis's burden and risk factors are poorly studied in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of diaper dermatitis and associated factors among 1–24 months children visiting public health facilities in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia. MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 671 mother-child pairs from May 15 to June 15, 2022. A structured and pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire and observational checklist were used to collect the information. The data was collected using an open data kit tools and analyzed using Stata version 17.0. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were carried out to identify factors associated with diaper dermatitis. P-value <0.05 was considered to declare statistical significance. ResultsIn this study, 664 mother-child pairs, yielded a response rate of 98.96 %, were involved. Overall, 35.69 % [95 % CI: 32.04, 39.47] of children encountered diaper dermatitis. Being government-employed (AOR: 2.49, 95 % CI: 1.42, 4.35), primiparity (AOR: 1.52, 95 % CI: 1.03, 2.23), unplanned pregnancy (AOR: 1.93, 95 % CI: 1.22, 3.04), having poor knowledge about diaper dermatitis (AOR: 1.74, 95 % CI: 1.19, 2.56), using both disposable and non-disposable diapers alternatively (AOR: 3.35, 95 % CI: 1.55, 7.22), and applying ointments on diaper area (AOR: 1.93, 95 % CI: 1.26, 2.97) all increase the likelihood of diaper dermatitis. ConclusionDiaper dermatitis was high in the study hospitals; over one-third experienced it. Maternal occupation, parity, pregnancy status, maternal knowledge of diaper dermatitis, diaper type, and ointment application were significantly associated with diaper dermatitis. Improving maternal/guardian knowledge about diapering and diaper dermatitis is critical to reducing the burden and severity of the problem.

Extended postpartum intimate partner violence and its associated factors: community-based cross-sectional study design

BackgroundIntimate partner violence is a global problem that threatens mothers. It has multidimensional consequences but has not gained attention from scholars after childbirth.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of extended postpartum intimate partner violence and its associated factors.MethodA community-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 570 postpartum mothers in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia, from May 21st to June 21st, 2022. A pretested, face-to-face interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used. The level of statistical significance was declared at P < 0.05 with a 95% CI.ResultsOverall, the prevalence of extended postpartum intimate partner violence was 45% (95% CI: 40.89, 49.20). Participants whose husband has no formal education (AOR = 3.62; 95%CI: 1.32, 9.90) and only secondary education (AOR = 2.96; 95%CI: 1.56, 5.48), husband alcohol consumption (AOR = 1.73; 95%CI: 1.06, 2.80), husband dominance in decision-making (AOR = 1.94; 95%CI: 1.13, 3.33), husband disappointment in the gender of the baby (AOR = 2.13; 95%CI: 1.28, 3.56), previous history of intimate partner violence (AOR = 5.71; 95%CI: 3.59, 9.07), and low social support (AOR = 4.37; 95%CI: 2.53, 7.55) were significantly associated factors.Conclusions and recommendationsThe prevalence of extended postpartum intimate partner violence was found to be high. Thus, increasing awareness of husbands with no formal education and having lower academic achievement, incorporating maternal social support assessment into maternity and child health care; teaching on alcohol reduction behavior and gender roles; and screening of mothers during the prenatal period should be given.

Late postpartum depression and associated factors: community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundLate postpartum depression is the presence of depressive symptoms beyond the early postpartum period and is a significant mental health problem that has a devastating impact on mothers, infants, partners, family members, the healthcare system, and the world’s economy. However, there is limited information regarding this problem in Ethiopia.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of late postpartum depression and associated factors.Methodthe community-based cross-sectional study was employed among 479 postpartum mothers in Arba Minch town from May 21 to June 21, 2022. The pre-tested face-to-face interviewer administered a structured questionnaire used to collect the data. A bivariate and multivariable analysis was done using a binary logistic regression model to identify factors associated with late postpartum depression. Both crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% CI were calculated, and a p-value of < 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant factors.ResultThe prevalence of late postpartum depression was 22.98% (95% CI: 19.16, 26.80). Husband Khat use (AOR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.18, 5.91), partner dissatisfaction with the gender of the baby (AOR = 2.53; 95% CI: 1.22, 5.24), short inter-delivery interval (AOR = 6.80; 95% CI: 3.34, 13.84), difficulty to meet husband sexual need (AOR = 3.21; 95% CI: 1.62, 6.37), postpartum intimate partner violence (AOR = 4.08; 95% CI: 1.95, 8.54), and low social support (AOR = 2.50; 95% CI: 1.25, 4.50) were significantly associated factors at p-value < 0.05.ConclusionOverall, 22.98% of mothers suffered from late postpartum depression. Therefore, based on the identified factors, the Ministry of Health, Zonal Health Departments, and other responsible agencies should establish effective strategies to overcome this problem.

Awareness, Willingness to Join, and Affordability of Social Health Insurance among Public Employees in Arba Minch Town, South Ethiopia

Background. As part of the efforts being made to achieve universal health coverage, Ethiopia plans to introduce a social health insurance scheme for the formal sector. Although the contribution will be collected as 3% of an employee’s gross salary from both the employee and employer, there is a concern that the premium may not be affordable for the majority of civil servants and that there could be limited interest in joining the scheme. As a result, the purpose of this study was to assess public servants’ awareness, willingness to join, and affordability of social health insurance in Arba Minch, south Ethiopia. Methods and Materials. A cross-sectional study design was used with 713 randomly chosen public employees from Arba Minch town from January 1 to 30, 2019. The survey participants were selected based on a multistage stratified random sampling method. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize awareness and affordability of the scheme, and both bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to examine factors driving the outcome variables. Variables that had a p value of less than 0.25 in bivariate analysis were changed to multivariate analysis, and a p value of less than 0.05 was cutoff point for multivariate analysis. The odds ratio and 95% CI were used to report the findings. Result. In this study, 692 people voluntarily participated, which corresponds to a response rate of 97%. As the results revealed, 347 (50.1%) respondents had never heard of SHI before, 607 (87.7%) were able to afford the 3% of gross salary per month as a scheme premium, and 254 (36.7%) were willing to join the scheme. Working sector, regularly listening for health information through mass media, and social network participation were significantly associated with awareness of the SHI scheme. Also, educational status, family size, and net income were found to be significant factors associated with the affordability of the SHI scheme. On the other hand, awareness of SHI, family size, regularly listening for health information, and participation in social networks were significantly associated with willingness to join SHI during multivariate analysis. Conclusion. Half of the participants were unaware of social health insurance, suggesting that the program is not well known. Although only one-third of respondents were willing to join and pay for the program, the majority were able to afford the proposed contribution of 3% of gross wages per month.

Bacteriological Quality and Antimicrobial Resistant Patterns of Foodborne Pathogens Isolated from Commonly Vended Street Foods in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia.

Ready-to-eat foods sold by street vendors act as potential sources for the spread of various foodborne infectious diseases. Thus, local determination of the level of foodborne bacterial pathogens and their antimicrobial resistance pattern is essential. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 5th, 2022 to December 31th, 2022. The required data were collected by a structured questionnaire and observation checklist. Randomly selected street-vended foods were aseptically collected, and the bacteriological quality was assessed by using culture techniques. Different biochemical tests were used to identify and characterize bacterial isolates. The antimicrobial-resistant test for isolated foodborne bacterial pathogens was carried out by using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. A total of 34.2% (113/330) with a 95% CI of 29.1-39.4 of commonly consumed street-vended foods were identified as having unsatisfactory total mean aerobic bacterial counts (>105 CFU/g; 4.3 × 105 CFU/g). The mean total Enterobacteriaceae, coliform, and staphylococcal counts were found to be 1.4 × 105 CFU/g, 2.4 × 104 CFU/g, and 3.4 × 104 CFU/g, respectively. A total of 12.7% (42/330) of foodborne pathogens were recovered attributed to Staphylococcus aureus (31, 9.4%), Salmonella species (6, 1.8%), and E. coli O157:H7 (5, 1.5%). 6.5% and 16.1% of isolated S. aureus were found to be methicillin-resistant and multidrug-resistant (MDR), respectively. Additionally, 33.3% of Salmonella isolates and 40% of E. coli O157:H7 isolates were found to be MDR. Street-vended foods in this setting have a considerable number of unsatisfactory bacterial qualities, along with drug-resistant foodborne pathogens. Thus, more effective health education and training for vendors, regular inspections of vending sites, and regular surveillance of drug resistance patterns of foodborne pathogens are all essential.

Blood Pressure Examination Habit and Its Determinants Among Civil Servants in Arba Minch Town: A Cross-Sectional Study - Using Hurdle Poisson Regression Model.

Hypertension is a common non-communicable disease detected through blood pressure measurement that makes periodic health examinations crucial for the detection, prevention, and timely treatment. To assess the frequency of blood pressure examination and its determinant among civil servants in Arba Minch Town, south Ethiopia. From February to March 2020 an organization-based cross-sectional study design was employed among civil servants in Arba Minch town. Data were collected from 580 randomly selected civil servants using a well-structured questionnaire. Hurdle Poisson regression model was conducted to identify determinants of frequency of blood pressure examination using R version 4.0.2. A total of 407 (70.2%) civil servants had never examined their blood pressure within a year before the study time. The mean frequency of blood pressure examination was 0.71 with a standard deviation of 1.46. The hurdle Poisson regression analysis indicates age above 40 years (IRR = 6.11, p < 0.001), elevated blood pressure (IRR = 1.48, p < 0.001), no family history of hypertension (IRR = 0.59, p < 0.001) had significant effects on the expected number of non-zero counts blood pressure examination. And education status (OR; 2.39, p < 0.05), poor knowledge about hypertension, not getting advice from health professionals (OR = 8.93, p < 0.001), and age above 40 years had significant effects on not taking blood pressure examination. The frequency of blood pressure examinations among civil servants was found to be low. This study reveals age, elevated blood pressure, family history of hypertension, getting advice, and knowledge on hypertension were found to be determinants of the frequency of blood pressure examination. Thus, concerned health authorities and medical workers should work on these factors to prevent and detect hypertension among apparently healthy civil servants.

Salmonellosis prevalence and risk factors in chicken breeding farms in and around Arba Minch town, Gamo Zone, Ethiopia

Salmonellosis is one of the diseases affecting chicken breeding farms in research locations. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Salmonella, its risk factors, and the distribution of antibiotic resistance in chicken breeding farms in and around Arba Minch town, Southern Ethiopia. A total of 390 samples were obtained from the chicks selected using stratified random selection from the breeding farms. Each chick's rectum was sampled for cloacal swabs and fecal samples, which were later analyzed for Salmonella using microbial culture and serological methods. Drug sensitivity testing was done using disk diffusion techniques. Salmonella isolates were found in 7/285 (2.45%) of fecal dropping and 14/105 (13.33%) of cloacal swabs. S. Anatum 6/21 (28.57%), S. Saintpaul 5/21 (23.8%), S. Typhimurium 4/21 (19.04%), S. Kentucky 4/21(19.04%), and S. Haifa 2/21 (9.52%) were the identified serotypes with a prevalence of 21/390 (5.38%) (95% CI = 2.2-8). According to a multivariate logistic regression analysis of the risk factors, the source of feed, contact with other farms, chick breed, and management were statistically significant influences on the presence of Salmonella in chicks (p < 0.05). The 8 antimicrobials tested were found to be ineffective against 90.47% of the isolates. These antimicrobials are used in both human and animal medicine. Our findings confirmed that risk factors such as feed source, breed, contact with other farms, and management had a significant effect on the occurrence of salmonellosis in chicks, and disease control in the study area requires special attention.

Knowledge of postpartum complications and associated factors among women who gave birth in the last 12 months in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2019: A community-based cross-sectional study.

The knowledge of women about obstetric complications can helps them to seek health care earlier before obstetric complications arise. Most maternal deaths occur due to the poor health care seeking behavior after childbirth, but little is done on maternal knowledge of postpartum complications. Therefore this study aimed to assess knowledge of postpartum complications and associated factors among women who gave birth in the last 12 months in Arba Minch Town, Sothern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 418 women from December 01 to 15, 2019. A multi-stage sampling method was applied to reach study units. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data using face-to-face interviews. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was applied to examine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. Statistical significance was declared at a P-value ≤ 0.05 with the corresponding 95% confidence level. Knowledge of women on postpartum complications was 23.9%. Secondary and above educational level (AOR = 3.82, 95% CI: [1.70, 8.65]), Grand multiparity (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI: [1.13, 4.71]), having four and above ANC visit (AOR = 2.04, 95% CI: [1.10, 3.81]) and self-decision making power to seek care (AOR = 3.68, 95% CI: [2.21, 6.11]) were statistically significant factors. Mothers' knowledge of postpartum complications was low in this study area. Improving women's educational level, decision-making power to seek health care, and counseling during ANC follow-up may be useful approaches to increase their knowledge of postpartum complications.

Evaluation of bacteriological profile of meat contact surfaces, handling practices of raw meat and its associated factors in butcher shops of Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia-A facility based cross sectional study

BackgroundMeat is subjected to contamination from a range of sources throughout animal slaughter and its sale. The demand for meat products in Ethiopia has been increased dramatically; especially the consumption of fresh chilled meat becomes a status of symbol.ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the bacteriological profile of meat contact surfaces, raw meat handling practices, and its associated factors in butcher shops located in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia.Methods and MaterialsA facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out among meat handlers in butcher shops in Arba Minch town from November to December 2020. A pre-tested and semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data on workers meat handling practices and the sterile swab was used to collect samples from selected meat contact surfaces for bacteriological analysis. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was utilized to assess the presence and degree of association between raw meat handling practice and independent variables. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval at P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Result and ConclusionThis study revealed the knowledge and handling practice gap among meat handlers of butcher shops. Knowledge of food handling hygiene has shown significant association with handling practice [AOR = 4.5 (1.182,17.202)]. The median total viable count of bacterial loads from the swab samples of butchers’ hands, knives, and the tables was 5.60 ± 0.80, 5.60 ± 1.00, 5.70 ± 1.00 log10 Colony-forming unit (CFU)/cm2, respectively. Escherichia coli was the predominant isolate 34(68%) followed by Staphylococcus species 28(56%) and Salmonella species 19(38%). The median total bacterial load obtained from the samples exceeds the acceptable value of less than 5.0 log10 CFU/cm2 on fresh meat. This indicates the need for improvement in the meat handling and processing chain to safeguard the public health against the risks of foodborne bacterial infections.

Safety and therapeutic efficacy of artemether-lumefantrine in the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria at Shecha health centre, Arba Minch, Ethiopia

BackgroundIn 2004, Ethiopia adopted artemether-lumefantrine (AL, Coartem®) as first-line treatment for the management of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Continuous monitoring of AL therapeutic efficacy is crucial in Ethiopia, as per the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic efficacy of AL in the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum infection.MethodsA 28 day onearm, prospective evaluation of the clinical and parasitological response to AL was conducted at Shecha Health Centre, Arba Minch town, Southern Ethiopia. Patients were treated with six-dose regimen of AL over three days and monitored for 28 days with clinical and laboratory assessments. Participant recruitment and outcome classification was done in accordance with the 2009 WHO methods for surveillance of anti-malarial drug efficacy guidelines.ResultsA total of 88 study participants were enrolled and 69 of them completed the study with adequate clinical and parasitological response. Two late parasitological failures were observed, of which one was classified as a recrudescence by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCRcorrected cure rate was 98.6% (95% CI 92.3–100). AL demonstrated a rapid parasite and fever clearance with no parasitaemia on day 2 and febrile cases on day 3. Gametocyte clearance was complete by day three. No serious adverse events were reported during the 28 days follow-up.ConclusionThe study demonstrated high therapeutic efficacy and good safety profile of AL. This suggests the continuation of AL as the first-line drug for the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in Ethiopia. Periodic therapeutic efficacy studies and monitoring of markers of resistance are recommended for early detection of resistant parasites.

Prevalence of leftover medicines, disposal practices, and associated factors in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia.

The increased prevalence of leftover medicines in the community is currently a global concern due to the detrimental effects on the environment and health. However, several developing countries have failed to give sufficient consideration to the issue. The primary purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence of leftover medicines, disposal practices, and the factors affecting those in households in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia. A community-based, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among households in Bere Edigetber and Nech Sar of Arba Minch town, from June 25 to August 27, 2022. Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews with revalidated structured questionnaires. A multistage sampling technique was utilized to select each household. Three hundred forty-eight households agreed to participate in a study, resulting in a 94.8% response rate. Of the study participant, 172 (49.4%) of the households had leftover medicines, with antibiotics being the most common (64% of 172). Subsidy of symptoms and saving for later use were two frequently cited reasons for the presence of leftover medicines in the house. Throwing leftover medicines in household garbage was the preferred method of disposal (>60%). Only 0.1% of respondents considered returning leftover medicines to healthcare facilities or professionals. A binary regression analysis identified four predictors for having leftover medicines. Medicines obtained without prescription were the strongest predictor (odds ratio = 3.7; p < 0.001), followed by higher family monthly income (odds ratio = 2.5; p = 0.005), those waived paying for medicine (odds ratio = 0.294; p = 0.049), and those used medications for acute diseases (p = 0.048; odds ratio = 0.450). Respondents who had prior information on safe medicine disposal were 2.3 (p = 0.04) more likely to dispose of possessed leftover medicines rather than keep them for future use. This study revealed a high prevalence of leftover medicines and their improper disposal in Arba Minch town. The preferred methods of leftover medicine disposal in this study deviate from conventional standards. Significant factor variables that predict having leftover medicines are attributed to purchasing medicine without a prescription, higher family monthly income, those waived paying for medicine, and those who used medications for acute diseases. Prior knowledge of proper disposal practices predicated the decision to dispose of on-hand leftover medicines or keep them for future use. These findings would be critical in developing strategies to reduce leftover medicines and promote proper disposal practices.