Malaria remains among the Top three leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Kenya, especially in young children and pregnant women. It accounts for 30% of outpatient attendances and 19% of the admissions to health facilities and 3-5% of the inpatient deaths. It is the most important cause of deaths in children under 5 years of age and is estimated to cause 20% of all deaths in this age
While malaria transmission has been reduced considerably in some Kenyan regions, it still remains high among the residents in the Lake Victoria basin Intense malaria transmission is often observed in villages near lakes and large reservoirs in Africa
Blue cross in partnership with Global Fund Malaria and AMREF, has been undertaking Community Case management of malaria (CCM) as one of the strategies for improving access to prompt and effective malaria management since 2012 and the results have been promising. Trained CHPs offer diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated malaria, de worming tablets, growth monitoring, Vitamin A supplement, management of malnutrition, promoting Community led Total sanitation at home in areas where doctors and facilities are not immediately accessible. Trained CHPs are supported with AL and rapid diagnostic tests for malaria (MRDTs) by the ministry of health to enable them test for malaria at the community level. Finally, CCM also enables community health workers to identify children with severe acute malnutrition through the assessment of mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC). The potential for utilization of CHPs in improving access to malaria treatment at the community level is promising. This has not only enhance access to treatment by the poorest households but also provide early and appropriate treatment to vulnerable individuals, especially those living in hard to reach areas. Through the community unit strategy, the capacity of the affected communities have been build to enable them assess their own health situation, identify gaps, conduct dialogue leading to actions towards improvement .
Goal:
Malaria remains among the Top three leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Kenya, especially in young children and pregnant women. It accounts for 30% of outpatient attendances and 19% of the admissions to health facilities and 3-5% of the inpatient deaths. It is the most important cause of deaths in children under 5 years of age and is estimated to cause 20% of all deaths in this age