Eastern Ethiopia Research Articles

Prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among children aged 1–9 years in previous leprosarium and non-leprosarium areas in eastern Ethiopia: a community-based comparative study

BackgroundTrachoma is a neglected tropical disease that mainly affects impoverished and marginalized communities with inadequate shelter and sanitation. Nevertheless, the prevalence of active trachoma and the specific factors contributing to it among communities residing in former leprosy settlements in eastern Ethiopia are not well explored. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among children aged 1-9 years in the previous leprosarium and non-leprosarium areas, as well as urban and rural areas in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 580 systematically selected households from January 1 to 30, 2024. Data were collected by interviewing the children’s caregivers, observing the child and environment, and conducting a clinical examination of their eyes. Data were entered in EpiData version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) version 26 software for analysis. A chi-square test was also done. The association was presented as an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval, and variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were regarded as statistically significant.ResultsThe overall prevalence of active trachoma was 12.9% (95% CI: 10.5%-15.3%). The prevalence of active trachoma was 15.6%, 9.8%, 18.3%, and 7.5% among children in previous leprosy and non-leprosy settlements and rural and urban areas, respectively (x²=5.65, p-value = 0.017). Having eye discharge (AOR = 10.7’; 95% CI: 4.32, 26.51), latrine distance from home of less than 10 m(AOR=3.12; 95% CI: 1.16–8.34), being a rural resident (AOR=4.1; 95% CI: 1.69-10.18), presence of solid waste around their home (AOR=6.5; 95% CI: 2.14-19.72), and household monthly income less than 5000 Ethiopian birrs (AOR=2.9; 95%CI: 1.04-8.30) were statistically associated with active trachoma in the previous leprosy settlements. In the non-leprosy settlements, children who had eye discharge (AOR = 7.6; 95% CI: 5.37, 58.05), latrine distance from home of less than 10 m (AOR=3.12; 95%CI: 1.11, 8.77), habit of playing with soil (AOR=9.0; 95% CI: 2.92, 28.24), and presence of animal dung (AOR=6.98; 95% CI: 3.44, 48.47) were statistically associated with active trachoma.ConclusionIn this study, the prevalence of active trachoma among children aged from 1-9 years old was higher than the WHO target for the elimination of active trachoma (<5%) in every district. Therefore, targeted treatments and raising awareness on proper hygiene and sanitation are required to alleviate the problem.

Water, sanitation, and hygiene service inequalities and their associated factors among urban slums and rural communities in Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundUnderstanding the level of inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WaSH) services in urban and rural settlements is crucial for prioritizing community interventions and resource allocation. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding discrepancies in WaSH services across rural and urban slum communities in Ethiopia.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess inequalities in households’ WaSH services and their associated factors among urban slums and rural communities in Eastern Ethiopia from February to April 2024.MethodsA comparative community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted, with study participants selected through stratified random sampling using proportional-to-size allocation. Data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and then exported to STATA version 17 for analysis. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression was conducted, and associations were reported as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), using a p-value less than 0.05 as the significance threshold.ResultA total of 278 urban and 301 rural households participated in the study, with a response rate of 94%. Key indicators showed that WaSH services were significantly better in urban areas compared to rural households. For example, 98% (95% CI: 96, 99) of urban households had access to an improved water source compared to 76% (95% CI: 71, 80) of rural households. The proportion of households with improved latrines was 44% (95% CI: 38, 50) in urban areas and only 14% (95% CI: 11, 19) in rural areas. Handwashing practices at all five critical times were reported by 52% (95% CI: 46, 58) of urban household heads, compared to 22% (95% CI: 18, 27) of rural households. Additionally, occupation (such as being a farmer, p = 0.000) and water service satisfaction (p = 0.000) were significantly associated with these key WaSH outcomes.ConclusionThe study revealed that the WaSH services in urban slums are considerably better than in rural households. Socioeconomic factors significantly influence the existing disparities in WaSH services. Stakeholders should focus on providing targeted, strategic support to communities to address the challenges in WaSH service provision.

Prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among solid waste collectors in Jigjiga city, eastern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study design

BackgroundSolid waste collectors play an important role in maintaining health and hygiene in cities globally. The risk levels are very high in low-income countries since solid waste collectors have low socio-economic status and are exposed directly, unknowingly, and without adequate personal protection to municipal solid waste that contains hazardous materials. Solid waste collectors in Ethiopia are at high risk of occupational injuries due to the manual collection of hazardous solid waste by hand. In Jigjiga city, so far, there has been no study or published research showing the prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among municipal solid waste collectors.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among solid waste collectors in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia, 2023.MethodsAn institutional cross-sectional study was conducted in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, involving 247 solid waste collectors. Data was collected through an observational and structured questionnaire and analyzed using Epi Info and STATA software programs. The study used systematic random sampling techniques and bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to determine the statistical association between the outcome variable and independent variables. The significance of the association was tested using the 95% confidence interval and p value (<0.05).ResultsThe overall prevalence of occupational injuries was 54.7% (95% CI: 48.2%, 60.6%). Training on health and safety measures before employment [AOR: 0.43, 95% CI (0.24, 0.80)], sleeping problems [AOR: 3.28, 95% CI (1.86, 5.78)] and Temporary workers [AOR: 2.14, 95% CI (1.16, 3.95)] were significantly associated with occupational injuries.ConclusionThe prevalence rate of occupational injuries among solid waste collectors in Jigjiga City was high. There should be preventive measures, like giving Training on Health and safety before employment, to safeguard the health and safety conditions of the workers.

Bridging disparity in knowledge and utilization of contraceptive methods among married couples in the pastoralist community of Fentale District, Eastern Ethiopia.

Despite progress in national reproductive health, pastoralist regions, including the Fentale District in Eastern Ethiopia, face challenges with limited contraceptive coverage due to gaps in understanding and adoption among couples. This cross-sectional study of 1496 couples in Fentale District, Eastern Ethiopia, from October 1 to December 25, 2021, utilized multistage sampling. Data entered into EPI Data underwent analysis with SPSS (v23.0) and STATA (v14.0), employing descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and binary logistic regression to identify predictors of contraceptive knowledge. Of the 1496 couples, 93.8% (1404) participated in the survey. Significant educational disparities were observed, with 53.8% having no formal education, particularly among women (65.2%). Despite this, 80.2% of couples were aware of at least one family planning (FP) method, and 78.6% knew modern methods. The median knowledge of contraception methods was 3 for both genders. Men showed higher awareness of male (43.2%) and female condoms (17.4%) compared to women (31.8% and 6.0%). Overall, 27.4% of couples used contraception, with a significant gender difference: 41.2% of women and 13.5% of men. Modern contraceptives were used by 18.2% of couples, predominantly by women (34.8%). Binary logistic regression analysis indicated positive associations between contraceptive knowledge and education, bank account ownership, occupation, proximity to healthcare, and media exposure, while a nomadic-pastoralist lifestyle and specific treatment preferences showed negative associations. The limited knowledge and utilization of family planning in the Fentale District stem from gaps in comprehension and disparities among couples. Factors influencing this situation include socio-demographic considerations, such as variations based on education, occupation, media exposure, bank account ownership, treatment preferences, and distance from healthcare facilities. This ensures that the interventions are having the desired effect and allows for adjustments as needed to promote family planning uptake.

Co-occurrence of occupational outcomes and associated factors among hospitals cleaners, eastern ethiopia: a cross sectional study.

Hospital cleaners face a complex and varied work environment due to several potentially dangerous circumstances, including the risk of getting injured by sharp objects and being subjected to various ergonomic and physical risks. They thus acquire a combination or co-occurrence of outcomes associated to their line of work. In this study it stands for occurrence of occupational injuries and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) during study period, which has not been explored in developing countries like Ethiopia, particularly among hospital cleaners. To assess the prevalence of co-occurrence of occupational outcomes and associated factors among hospital cleaners, Eastern Ethiopia. A cross sectional study was conducted on 741 cleaners in eight hospitals in eastern Ethiopia from May, 2023 to 30th August, 2023. Face-to-face interview was conducted. The data quality was maintained by designing standard questions that preserved both external and internal validity. The entered data was exported from Epi-Data 3.1 to Stata 17MP. Descriptive statistic was used to characterize one variable, While, binary logistic regression was used to explore the relationship of the predictors. At binary analysis variables having a p-value of < 0.20 were candidates for multivariate logistic regression. The crude odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were presented. Those variables having < 0.05 were reported. The variance inflation factor used to test multicollinearity. While, Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit-test was applied for model fit. From total of 741 hospital cleaners, 679 (91.63%) of them were responded. The prevalence co-occurrence of occupational outcome among cleaners was 25.04% (95%CI: 21.82, 28.47). The multivariate logistic regression shows that those had workload (AOR:2.78, 95%CI: 1.25,6.17), those worked more than 8r/day (AOR:3.45, 95%CI:2.34,6.32), those have sleeping disorders (AOR: 4.61,95%CI: 2.89, 8.03), those had work stress (AOR:2.05, 95%CI:0.98,4.29), those highly exposed with hazards (AOR: 4.22, 95%CI:2.40, 7.45) and those had poor knowledge of risk (AOR:2.41, 95%CI:1.06, 5.50) were more likely increase the odds of co-occurrence of occupational outcome as compared to their counterparts. The current study concluded that one-fourth of the co-occurrence of occupational outcomes was reported among hospital cleaners. The study also found that lack of supervision, workload, working more hours per a day, severely presence of occupational hazards, lack of regular job rotation, the sleeping disorders and having work stress all increased the odds of co-occurrence occupational outcome.

Onsite training-mentoring intervention improves data quality: an implementation research.

The quality of health data is not satisfactory in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs). Haramaya University, in collaboration with Ministry of Health and Regional Health Bureau, conducted an implementation research in selected public health facilities and administrative units. This research was aimed to test the onsite training-mentoring (OTM) intervention and adaptation of the implementation strategy to improve the routine health information system (RHIS) data quality in the context of public health sector. An interrupted time series design with an onsite training-mentoring intervention was used to improve data quality in public health sector of Jigjiga Woreda, eastern Ethiopia from July 2021 to June 2022. Both the pre and post intervention assessments data were collected by experienced and trained public health professionals using interviewer guided self-administered interview, record review and observation data collection techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic models to identify predictors of data quality. The overall data accuracy was increased from 88.12% before to 95.0% after intervention; and it was above 90% in all the facilities. The overall data content completeness was increased from 75.75% to 89.9%, though it varied among the facilities. The timeliness and report completeness were 100% in all the facilities. The odds of those health workers who had poor knowledge were less likely to ensure data quality (AOR = 0.39; 95%CI: 0.19, 0.83) than their counterparts. The intervention was brought substantial changes of data quality in the study setting. Knowledge of the workers towards data quality is a crucial factor to ensure data quality in the sector. Thus, collective efforts is required to continue this tested intervention to ensure the quality of the routine health information system in the lower levels of the sector.

Magnitude of academic performance and its associated factors among health science students at Eastern Ethiopia University's 2022.

Academic performance is the extent to which a student, teacher, or institution has attained their short- or long-term educational goals and is measured either by continuous assessment or cumulative grade point average (CGPA). Good academic performance is defined as the students who scored a cumulative GPA of 3 and above. Even though few studies were done in Ethiopia, there was no clear evidence regarding the role of cognitive and learning issues such as academic competence, test competence, time management, strategic studying, and test anxiety on the academic performance of students. To assess the magnitude academic performance and its associated factors among health science students at Eastern Ethiopian universities. An institution based cross sectional study design was implemented on a total of 924 regular undergraduate students of eastern Ethiopian universities. Good academic performance was measured as the students who scored a cumulative GPA of three and above. The study participants were selected using simple random sampling techniques, and a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The collected data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 25 software. A P-value < 0.2 at bivariate to select variables for multivariable and < 0.05 at multivariable with 95% CI was considered statistical significance. A total of 924 participants were included, with a response rate of 98.7%. The overall magnitude of good academic performance among health science students at Eastern Ethiopia University's was 70.5%, with a 95% CI = 67%- 73%. Residence [AOR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.9-3.93], not having a sexual partner [AOR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.64-3.72], good test competence [AOR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.4-2.6], good time management [AOR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.86-3.15], and good strategic study [AOR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.33-2.45] were significantly associated with good academic performance. Increased odds of good academic performance were observed among students with rural residence, sexual partner, good test competence, good time management, and strategic study. A collaborative and multidisciplinary approach is needed to enhance the academic performance of students.

Determinants of macrosomia among newborns delivered in Jigjiga City, Eastern Ethiopia: a case-control study

BackgroundMacrosomia is a forgotten health problem that directly or indirectly affects maternal and neonatal health outcomes. There is a lack of evidence on the factors that affect macrosomia in eastern Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the determinants of macrosomia among newborns delivered in Jigjiga City, Eastern Ethiopia.MethodsAn institutional-based case-control study was conducted among 82 cases and 164 controls in Jigjiga City from June 25 to August 24, 2023. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify the determinants of macrosomia. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval was used to report the strength of the association, and the statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05.ResultsThis study found that lack of preconception care (AOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.29, 4.76); post-term pregnancy (AOR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.16, 7.28); inadequate physical activity (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI: 1.55, 7.98), having previous macrosomia (AOR = 4.52, 95% CI: 2.18, 9.36), and gestational diabetic mellitus (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.10, 6.28) were the main risk factors of macrosomia.ConclusionThis study indicated that failed utilization of preconception care, inadequate physical activity during pregnancy, post-term pregnancy, gestational diabetic mellitus, and having previous macrosomia were the risk factors for fetal macrosomia. Encouraging women to utilize reproductive health services and providing special care for high-risk mothers are essential to reducing and preventing the level of fetal macrosomia and its consequences.

Recovery time and its predictors of severe acute malnutrition among under five children admitted at the therapeutic feeding center of Hiwot Fana comprehensive specialized hospital, eastern Ethiopia, 2024: a semi-parametric model

BackgroundEarly recovery is a performance indicator of quality care for children under five admitted due to severe acute malnutrition (SAM) at therapeutic feeding centers. Despite the available interventions to tackle such nutritional problems, there is limited information on the time to recovery and its predictors among children with severe acute malnutrition in Ethiopia, more particularly in the study setting.ObjectiveThe study aimed to assess the time to recovery from severe acute malnutrition and its predictors among children aged 6–59 months admitted to the therapeutic feeding center (TFC) of Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HFCSH), eastern Ethiopia, from 1st September 2019 to 1st March 012024.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted at the therapeutic feeding center of HFCSH among a randomly selected sample of 349 patients with severe acute malnutrition who were undergoing therapeutic feeding. Data were collected using a data abstraction tool and then stored in Epi-data version 4.6 and STATA version 17.0 statistical software. Descriptive statistics, Kaplan–Meier (KM) plots, median survival times, the log-rank test, and the Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to report the findings of this study. After performing the Cox proportional hazards regression, the model goodness of fit and assumptions were checked. Finally, the association between independent variables and the time to recovery in days was assessed using the multivariable Cox proportional hazards model, and the variables with a p-value &amp;lt;0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsThe median survival time to recovery among the patients with severe acute malnutrition was 17 days [95% confidence interval (CI): 16–18]. The incidence density recovery rate was 5.7 (95%CI, 4.9–6.6) per 100 person-days of observation. Factors that affected the time to recovery included residing in rural areas [adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) = 2.072; 95%CI = 1.336–3.215], being vaccinated according to age (AHR = 1.848; 95%CI = 1.162–2.939), and lack of analgesic administration (AHR = 0.685; 95%CI = 0.472–0.995).ConclusionThe median survival time to recovery in this study was found to be optimal. Residency, vaccination status of the child, and analgesic administration were the determinant factors. Paying attention to vaccination coverage, fever management, and pain management as part of the protocol helps reduce the length of hospital stay by facilitating recovery rates among severely malnourished children under five in Ethiopia.

Impacts of Participatory Forest Management on Land Use/Land Cover of Adaba-Dodola Forest in South Eastern Ethiopia and its Implication to REDD+ Implementation.

Despite various interventions to protect forests, many developing countries, including Ethiopia, continue to face substantial forest conservation challenges, particularly where local communities heavily rely on forests for their livelihoods. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the government of Ethiopia introduced Participatory Forest Management (PFM) and devolved forest management responsibilities to enhance forest conservation. Therefore, this assessment examines the impacts of PFM on forest cover based on an analysis of the Land Use/Land Cover Change (LULCC) over the last 23 years in Adaba-Dodola, and its implications for REDD+ implementation. The study involved determining the LULCC of the Adaba-Dodola forest after the introduction of PFM from 2000 to 2023. Landsat images of 2000, 2012, and 2023 were analyzed to detect LULCC. The study result showed that the Adaba-Dodola forest cover increased by 1.83% since the PFM was introduced. The decreased agricultural land by 0.87% was the main factor attributed to the increase in shrub cover, while shrubland attributed to the rise in forest cover. Net areas of about 148 ha/year of shrublands were converted into forest land owing to significant forest regeneration, while shrublands had a net gain of 110.5 ha/year from agriculture and grasslands between 2000 and 2023. The increase in forest cover is attributed to the effectiveness of PFM in halting deforestation and promoting forest conservation. Thus, the PFM approach is a tool for preserving forest ecosystems and mitigating the adverse effects of deforestation and forest degradation, therefore would be used as an umbrella for implementing REDD+.

Health related quality of life and associated factors among children living in previous leprosarium and nonleprosarium areas of Eastern Ethiopia

Children and their families living in leprosarium areas may have a lower quality of life than the general population. However, there is limited evidence on health-related quality of life and its associated factors among children living in previous leprosarium settlement areas. Hence, this study aimed to compare the health-related quality of life among children living in previous leprosarium and non-leprosarium settlement areas in eastern Ethiopia. A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 515 randomly selected children aged 8 to 18 years living in the Amir Nur and Babile districts from January to February 30, 2024. Data were collected through interviews with children and parents using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4. The data were analyzed using STATA version 14. Simple and multiple linear regression was employed to identify associations between independent and outcome variables. The overall mean health-related quality of life scores were 73.98 ± 18.47 and 77.67 ± 14.72 in the child self-reports (P = 0.01) and 55.78 ± 12.03 and 55.61 ± 8.50 (P = 0.85) in the parent proxy reports in the previous leprosarium and nonleprosarium settlement areas, respectively. In multiple linear regression, child education (β = 14.69; 95% CI: 8.69, 20.69), the absence of neglected and tropical diseases (β = 4.02; 95% CI: 0.66, 7.37), and child face washing habits (β = 5.54, 95% CI: 2.14, 8.95) increase health-related quality of life. However, a previous history of neglected and tropical diseases (β = -8.54; 95% CI: -12.93, -4.15) and the absence of hand washing facilities (β = -8.57; 95% CI, -15.22, -1.92) decrease the mean health-related quality of life. Based on child self-reports, one in four children from previous leprosarium areas had poor health-related quality of life compared to children living in none leprosarium areas. Children’s educational status, their daily habits of washing their face, not having neglected, and tropical diseases had improved health-related quality of life. To improve health-related quality of life, stakeholders should pay attention to and work on the early detection and treatment of neglected and tropical diseases, child education, and proper sanitation practices in the leprosarium community.

Indoor air bacterial quality and associated factors in prison inmate cells of East Hararghe Zone and Harari Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia.

Bacterial indoor air load refers to the level of bacteria within and around dwellings and other structures. Pathogens, bacterial cell fragments, and bacterial organisms' byproducts can all pose major issues indoors, especially in prison inmate cells. However, there is lack of data on bacterial load and contributing factors in the East Hararghe zone and Harari regional state. The lack of studies on microbiological indoor air quality in prisons with contributing factors will therefore be filled by this investigation. The study aimed to assess bacterial indoor air load and contributing factors in prison inmate cells from October 1 to October 30, 2020. An institutional cross-sectional study was employed. All of the prisons in the East Hararghe zone and the Harari regional state served as the study's and source population. 62 prison cells were used in the investigation. Samples were obtained using the passively settling plate technique. The data were evaluated through the use of SPSS statistical software, Excel, and the statistical procedures of ANOVA, correlation, and chi-square test. The maximum and minimum bacterial loads, were recorded at 8:00 am (3027 CFU/m3) and 2:00 pm (1048 (CFU/m3) respectively. The correlation between the temperature and bacterial load was strongly positive (r = 0.680, p = 0.047), and the correlation of the moisture content and bacterial load was strongly negative (r = -0.671, p = 0.039). The levels of bacteria were higher than the guideline (2000 CFU/m3). While the relative humidity of indoor air was negatively correlated with bacterial load, temperature and bacterial load were significantly positively correlated. Harari regional state and East Hararghe zone prison commissions should be alarmed to alleviate these problems. The building standards need to be completely updated to the latest standards.

Spatiotemporal patterns and factors contributing to neonatal mortality in Ethiopia: Data from EDHS 2000 to 2019.

Although Ethiopia has substantial improvements in various health indicators such as maternal and child mortality, the burden of neonatal mortality remains high. Between 2016 and 2019, neonatal mortality increased from 29 deaths per 1,000 live births to 33 deaths per 1,000 live births. This study aimed to explore the spatial patterns and factors contributing to neonatal mortality in Ethiopia. Data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS) for the years 2000, 2005, 2011, 2016, and 2019 were analyzed. The EDHS sampling design uses a two-stage cluster sampling technique, considering census enumeration areas as primary sampling units and households as secondary sampling units. We used the Spatial Scan analysis in SaTScan and Getis-Ord Gi* statistic in Geographic Information System (GIS), to analyse the spatiotemporal patterns of neonatal mortality. Maternal, newborn and health service-related factors contributing to neonatal mortality were also analyzed using a multilevel logistic regression model. Adjusted Odds Rios (AOR) with corresponding 95% CI were presented as a measure of association and a P-value of 0.05 was used to declare statistical significance. During the initial three consecutive surveys, there was a consistent pattern of hot spot clusters in the Amhara and Benshangul Gumuz regions, along with certain parts of the Oromia region. However, in later surveys, these clusters shifted to the eastern parts of the country, notably including the Somali region. Early initiation of breast feeding was associated with reduced chances of neonatal death (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]) = 0.27; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.23, 0.32). Neonates born at home (AOR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.82) and male babies had a higher likelihood of mortality during the neonatal period compared to their counterparts (AOR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.24, 1.51). The odds of neonatal mortality increased with the number of children a mother had ever given birth to (AOR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.24, 1.51). In contrast, longer birth intervals were associated with a reduced risk of neonatal mortality (AOR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.68, 0.83). The central southern, central-western, north-western, and northern parts of Ethiopia had most of the neonatal death clusters in the first three rounds of DHS while eastern Ethiopia had the highest neonatal mortality clusters in the latest two surveys. Our results underscore the importance for policymakers and health administrators to reassess intervention approaches and reallocate resources to regions identified as hot spots for neonatal mortality. Enhancing the initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of birth would improve newborn survival rates. Special attention and care need to be given to babies born of smaller sizes.

Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Campylobacter isolated from camel at municipal abattoirs in eastern Ethiopia

Campylobacteriosis is an infectious zoonotic disease caused by the genus Campylobacter. The disease is transmitted from animals to humans predominantly through the consumption of contaminated food and water. However, the lack of information on the status of Campylobacter makes it difficult to quantify the role of camel meat in the dissemination of the pathogen. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to August 2023 to investigate the occurrence of Campylobacter and associated risk factors and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Campylobacter species from camels slaughtered at municipal abattoirs in the towns of Harar, Babile, Jigjiga and Dire Dawa in eastern Ethiopia. A total of 324 (146 carcass swabs, 146 camel feces and 32 abattoir environmental swab samples) were collected and analyzed using TaqMan real-time PCR and culture techniques following standard procedures. In addition, antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed using the disk diffusion method for eight antimicrobial agents according to the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute. The overall prevalence of Campylobacter was 7.7%. Campylobacter was more frequently detected from carcasses and surface contact environmental swabs. We isolated Campylobacter at the genus level from approximately half of the PCR-positive samples, representing 54.2% (13 out of 24) of the total. The isolation levels of C. jejuni and C. coli were also 5.56% and 2.2%, respectively, which varied significantly (p = 0.037) based on sample type and site. The odds of occurrence of C. jejuni in samples collected from abattoir environments was 7.52 times greater than those in carcass and fecal samples. We detected resistance to chloramphenicol (78.6%), followed by amoxicillin (71.4%). However, 93%, 78.6%, and 71.4% of the isolates were susceptible to ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and nalidixic acid, respectively. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 60% of the isolates. Of these MDR isolates, 9 (75%) were C. jejuni and 3 (25%) were C. coli. This study revealed that a considerable proportion of multidrug-resistant Campylobacter species circulate in both camel meat and abattoir environments. This indicates possible carcass cross-contamination by Campylobacter during slaughtering that can pose a threat to humans and limit therapeutic options, which could be prevented by applying good hygienic practices at abattoirs. Therefore, abattoir workers need to be aware of abattoir hygienic standard operating procedures. Regular coordinated actions should be implemented for the rational use of veterinary and medical drugs at the national level, together with training and awareness of hygienic practices.

Ethnobotanical knowledge and practices of pastoralist communities on plants used as repellents and/or insecticides against insect vectors in the Korahaye zone of the Somali Regional State, eastern Ethiopia

Ethnobotanical knowledge and practices of pastoralist communities on plants used as repellents and/or insecticides against insect vectors in the Korahaye zone of the Somali Regional State, eastern Ethiopia

Beyond Eradication: Unveiling Local Voices and Proactive Management Strategies for Prosopis juliflora in Eastern Ethiopia's Arid Landscape

The introduction of Prosopis for environmental rehabilitation in Ethiopia's arid regions led to unanticipated consequences. To overcome these challenges, OXFAM introduced a new technology with multiple benefits. This paper examines the local community's perception, the current Prosopis management system, and potential strategies using exploratory research. Data were collected from 55 purposively selected respondents through key informants (09), focus group discussion (05), survey scheduled interviews (13), in-depth household interviews (28), and direct field observation. Data were analyzed thematically and using descriptive statistics. The result of the study revealed that Prosopis is expanding alarmingly in the area. Pastoralist communities in the study area have a negative attitude towards this alien species. The pilot project was found to be essential and supports the government's effort to decrease the Prosopis invasion and provide alternative income sources. The most critical problems that cooperative members faced included access to credit (PCI=39), lack of technical support after the project exits (PCI=32), and the high price of Prosopis pods extraction and charcoal-making machines (PCI=25). The success of the new technologies depends on their acceptance and adoption by the beneficiaries. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate the various efforts made by stakeholders towards sustainable management of Prosopis juliflora. Providing a supportive environment for new businesses during their critical early stages regarding startup capital, market linkage, technical-skill training, and information can help them survive and grow through the vulnerable period. Further projects and interventions should consider using Prosopis for human nutritious foods, medicinal uses, and honey production.

Poverty and resilience impacts of conservation agriculture adoption against climatic-shocks in Eastern Ethiopia

The aims of this study are to analysis adoption and impacts of conservation agriculture on poverty and resilience to drought in Eastern Ethiopia. Multi-stage sampling method was employed and four districts were randomly selected from Eastern Hararghe Zone. Using cross-sectional survey data collected in 2023 from 430 households, multinomial endogenous switching regression was applied in impact evaluation. The result shows farm experience, education, climatic-shocks experience, access to climate information, access to extension, number of oxen, farm size, labor force, livestock and distance to market are determinants of conservation agriculture (CA) adoption in terms of inter-cropping, crop rotation and crop residue retention or mulch practices in its single and combination of practices. Poverty was evaluated based on cost-of-basic-need and resilience to drought is in its index. Accordingly, the food poverty line and total consumption expenditure or total poverty line was found to be 6582.7ETB and 8620.70ETB per Adult/Equivalent per year in the study area. Results of average treatment effect on treated shows adoption is significantly reduced poverty and increased resilience to drought condition in the area. The study also shows importance role of extension service in adoption of CA practices. There is a need to encourage extension facilities and awareness to promote better adoption of CA particularly, in its combination. The combination of practices increased consumption expenditure of adopters by 73.3 percent compared to non-adopters, given its significant impact on households’ poverty and resilience to drought in moisture stress area of eastern Ethiopia. So, it is crucial to more advances farmers and experts’ information on climate shocks and conservation agricultural practices adoption. The policymakers ought to develop and encourage farmers’ asset building plan including livestock, adult education, market linkage facilities, extension and weather related information delivery service to enhance adoption of conservation agricultural practices to combat the current and future drought.

Mapping illegal trade routes of live cheetahs from the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula.

Less than 7000 cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) persist in Africa. Although human-wildlife conflict, habitat degradation, and loss of prey are major threats to cheetah populations, illegal trade in live cubs for pets may have the most significant impact on populations in the Horn of Africa. We developed a novel, stepwise decision support tool to predict probable trafficking routes by leveraging the power of distinct modeling approaches. First, we created a cheetah habitat suitability index (HSI) to determine where source cheetah populations may occur. We then created a trafficking network model linking known and predicted cheetah populations with documented destinations in the Arabian Peninsula. A significant area in Eastern Ethiopia and Northern Somalia was estimated to harbor undocumented cheetahs. When these predicted populations were used as a supply source, the trafficking network model showed multiple routes passing through Somaliland and across the Gulf of Aden to Yemen, supporting the notion that undocumented cheetahs may be supplying pet market demands. Though we demonstrate how our decision support tool can inform law enforcement, conservation strategies, and community engagement, we caution that our results are not fully validated due to limited accessibility, alternative trafficking routes, and the cryptic nature of illegal wildlife trade.

The magnitude of chronic constipation and associated factors among type 2 diabetic patients in Harar, Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundConstipation, which affects 16% of adults worldwide, is a chronic health problem characterized by unsatisfactory frequency of bowel movements, causing pain, bloating or incomplete bowel movements. The study aims to assess the magnitude of chronic constipation and associated factors among T2DM patients attending the endocrinology outpatient clinic at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital from January 1 to May 30, 2023.MethodsHospital-based cross-sectional study design was carried out to assess the magnitude and associated factors of chronic constipation among T2DM patients at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital. Using a single population formula 300 T2DM patients were enrolled in this study. The data was analyzed by using the Epi-Data 4.6 and SPSS version 25. Descriptive, bivariate, multivariate, and logistic regression were used. P < 0.05 was used to declare association.Results300 T2DM patients participated in this survey. Of these 137 (45.7%) were male and 163 (54.3%) were female and the mean age was 58.57 ± 11.09 SD years, the range from 35 to 85 years. The prevalence of constipation was 73 (24.3%) (95% CI: 0.196–0.296). Education status above high school (AOR: 0.151.95% CI: 0.032–0.718), less than 7 h of sleep per day (AOR: 12.39.95% CI: 2.712–56.69), frequent depression (AOR: 6, 84, 95% CI: 2.639–17.743), parents with constipation (AOR: 6.843.95% CI: 2.639–17.743), daily water intake < 1300 ml (AOR: 4.760.95% CI: 1.146–19.773), TAG levels below 150 mg/dl (AOR: 0.050, 95% CI: 0.015–0.166), HbAlc between 6 and 7% (AOR: 0.013.95% CI: 0.001–0.132) ,HbAlc between 7.1 and 8% (AOR: 0.006, 95% CI: 0.001–0.067), and LDL levels were significantly associated with chronic constipation in T2DM patients.ConclusionsThe prevalence of chronic constipation was considerable in T2DM patients. Education level above high school, less than 7 h of sleep per day, frequent depression, parents with constipation, daily water intake < 1300 ml, TAG and HbAlc play a significant role in the development of chronic constipation in T2DM patients. T2DM patients can reduce the extent of constipation by treating the above problem in a timely and timely manner.

Urban malaria and its determinants in Eastern Ethiopia: the role of Anopheles stephensi and urbanization

BackgroundMalaria prevention and control strategies have been hampered by urbanization and the spread of Anopheles stephensi. The spread of this vector into Africa further complicates the already complex malaria situation, that could put about 126 million Africans at risk of infection. Hence, this study aimed to assess the determinants of urban malaria, focusing on the role of urbanization and the distribution of An. stephensi in Eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA matched case control study was conducted among febrile urban residents of Dire Dawa (malaria positive as cases and negative as a control). A capillary blood sample was collected for parasite identification using microscopic examination and an interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect additional data. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention miniature light traps (CDC-LT) and Prokopack aspirator were used to collect adult mosquito vectors from the selected cases and control houses to identify the mosquito vector species. Then, the data were exported to STATA for analysis. Conditional logistic regression was done to identify determinants, and principal component Analysis (PCA) was done for some independent variables.ResultsThis study enrolled 132 cases and 264 controls from urban setting only. Of the 132 cases, 90 cases were positive for Plasmodium falciparum, 34 were positive for Plasmodium vivax and 8 had mixed infections. All cases and controls were similar with regard to their respective age and sex. Travel history (AOR: 13.1, 95% CI 2.8–61.4), presence of eves and holes on walls (AOR: 2.84, 95% CI 1.5–5.5), history of malaria diagnosis (AOR: 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.3), owning any livestock (AOR: 7.5, 95% CI 2.4–22.8), presence of stagnant water in the area (AOR: 3.2, 95% CI 1.7–6.1), sleeping under bed net the previous night (AOR: 0.21, 95% CI 0.1–0.6) and knowledge on malaria and its prevention (AOR: 2.2, 95% CI 1.2–4.1) were determinants of urban malaria infection. About 34 adult Anopheles mosquitoes were collected and identified from those selected cases and control houses and 27 of them were identified as An. stephensi.ConclusionAmong the cases, the dominant species were P. falciparum. This study identified travel history, house condition, past infection, livestock ownership, stagnant water, bed net use, and malaria knowledge as determinants of infection. This study also found the dominance of the presence of An. stephensi among the collected mosquito vectors. This suggests that the spread of An. stephensi may be impacting malaria infection in the study area. Hence, strengthening urban-targeted malaria interventions should be enhanced to prevent and control further urban malaria infection and spread.