Browsing by Author "Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth"
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Item Access to family planning services and associated factors among young people in Lira city northern Uganda(BMC Public Health, 2024) Kigongo, Eustes; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Musinguzi, Marvin; Kwizera, Gad; Achan, Everlyne; Nabasirye, Caroline Kambugu; Udho, Samson; Kabunga, Amir; Omech, BernardBackground Access to family planning services among young people is crucial for reproductive health. This study explores the access and associated factors among young people in Lira City, Northern Uganda. Methods and materials A mixed-methods study was conducted in March to April 2022. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 553 participants aged 15–24 years. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data analysis included univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses for quantitative data, while interpretative phenomenological analysis was used for qualitative data. Results Overall, 31.7% of the respondents had a good perceived access to family planning services, with 64.6% reporting perceived availability of FP methods. Challenges included lack of privacy (57.7%), fear of mistreatment (77.2%), and decision-making difficulties (66.2%). Among females, good perceived access to FP services was less likely among urban residents (AOR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.09–0.53), Christian respondents (AOR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.01–0.36), Muslim respondents (AOR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01–0.55) and respondents with poor attitude to FP services (AOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.24–0.64), but more likely among respondents with a sexual a partner (AOR: 4.48, 95% CI: 2.60–7.75). Among males, good perceived access to FP services was less likely among respondents living with parents (AOR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.05–0.67) but more likely among respondents with good knowledge of FP services (AOR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.02–5.32). Qualitative findings showed that three themes emerged; knowledge of family planning methods, beliefs about youth contraception and, friendliness of family planning services. Conclusion The study revealed a substantial gap in perceived access to family planning services among young people in Lira City. Barriers include privacy concerns, fear of mistreatment, and decision-making difficulties. Tailored interventions addressing urban access, religious beliefs for females, and knowledge enhancement for males are essential. Positive aspects like diverse FP methods and physical accessibility provide a foundation for targeted interventions. Youth-friendly services, comprehensive sexual education, and further research are emphasized for a nuanced understanding and effective interventions in Northern Uganda. Keywords Access, Contraception, Family planning, Youths, Young peopleItem Determinants of primary healthcare providers’ readiness for integration of ART services at departmental levels: A case study of Lira City and District, Uganda(PLoS ONE, 2023) Ikwara, Emmanuel Asher; Nakero, Lakeri; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Isabirye, Rogers; Namutebi, Syliviah; Mwesiga, Godfrey; Puleh, Sean StevenBackground Decreasing or flattening funding for vertical HIV services means that new and innovative ways of providing care are necessary. This study aimed to assess the determinants of readi- ness for integration of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) services at the departmental level among primary health care providers (PHCP) at selected health facilities in Lira District. Methods A cross-sectional survey employing mixed methods approaches was conducted between January and February 2022 among 340 primary healthcare practitioners (PHCP) at selected health facilities in Lira district. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Stata version 15. and presented as proportions, means, percentages, frequencies, and odds ratios. Logistic regression was used to determine associations of the factors with readiness for ART integration at a 95% level of significance. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Results The majority 75.2% (95% CI; 0.703–0.795) of the respondents reported being ready for the integration of ART services. PHCPs who were aware of the integration of services and those who had worked in the same facility for at least 6 years had higher odds of readiness for integration of ART, compared with their counterparts [aOR = 7.36; 95% CI = 3.857– 14.028, p-value <0.001] for knowledge and duration at the current facility [aOR = 2.92; 95% CI = 1.293–6.599, p-value < 0.05] respectively. From the qualitative data, the dominant view was that integration is a good thing that should be implemented immediately. However, several challenges were noted, key among which include limited staffing and drug supplies at the facilities, coupled with limited space. Conclusions The study reveals a high level of readiness for the integration of ART services at departmen- tal levels among Primary Healthcare Providers. Notably, PHCPs knowledgeable about inte- gration and those who spent at least six years at the current health facility of work, were strong determinants for the integration of ART services in resource limited settings. In light of these findings, we recommend that policymakers prioritize the implementation of training programs aimed at upskilling healthcare workers. Furthermore, we advocate that a cluster randomized controlled trial be conducted, to evaluate the long-term effects of this integration on overall health outcomes.Item Emotional intelligence and compassion fatigue among psychotherapists in selected districts of Northern Uganda(South African Journal of Psychology, 2020) Kabunga, Amir; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Apio, BettyGlobally, close to 50% of the professionals working with traumatised individuals have issues related to compassion fatigue. In Uganda, although compassion fatigue is prevalent among psychotherapists, there is limited evidence of relationship between emotional intelligence and compassion fatigue. This study set out to fill this gap. Data were collected from a random sample of 207 psychotherapists working in Northern Uganda, who completed Emotional Competency Inventory version-2.0 and Professional Quality of Life version-5 questionnaires. Chi-square and Fischer’s exact tests were used to analyse the data. Findings revealed that all the four elements of emotional intelligence (social awareness, self-awareness, self-management, and social skills) were inversely related to levels of compassion fatigue and were statistically significant at p < .0001. The study recommended that organisations offering psychotherapy services could focus on building emotional intelligence of their psychotherapists. Increasing emotional intelligence of psychotherapists is necessary to enable them deal more effectively, with their feelings and thus directly decrease the level of compassion fatigue thereby protecting their mental and physical health.Item Empowering communities through citizen science and participatory action research: implementation of a schistosomiasis communication campaign in Uganda(Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 2024) Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Huyse, Tine; Masquillier, Caroline; Nyakato, Viola Nilah; Poels, KarolienSchistosomiasis is a water-related disease strongly linked with high-risk water and sanitation practices perpetuating disease transmission. In Uganda, despite health education and sensitisation efforts through communication campaigns by the Ministry of Health to reduce schistosomiasis prevalence, common risky practices still pose a challenge, especially among endemic communities. Here, we steered away from the conventional top-down approach to communication campaigns and explored alternative methods. We employed citizen science (CS) and other participatory action research (PAR) techniques as a bottom-up approach to co-design and implement a communication campaign among communities of western Uganda, to achieve a more tangible outcome of behaviour change for preventing schistosomiasis. We collected qualitative data using data party, world café, prioritisation and ranking, focus group discussion, and key informant interviews from 378 purposively selected individuals and analysed it using a thematic analysis model. Community volunteers, community radios and local leaders were the most preferred channels for passing schistosomiasis information identified by participants. Lack of access to safe water and healthcare services, open defecation, and inadequate knowledge of schistosomiasis are some of the most pressing problems prioritised. Door-to-door visits by citizen scientists (CSs), community meetings, drama, and tournaments were the channels proposed by CSs and community groups during the co-design workshops. Over 1000 households and about 9000 community members were directly reached using the channels. Endemic communities prefer receiving schistosomiasis information using local channels instead of conventional ones. Combining citizen science with other PAR approaches empowers communities to interpret research findings in their contexts and take charge of the interventions. As such, clear and simple message coverage and a high audience turn-up can be achieved. A follow-up study is needed to evaluate the process and impact of the communication intervention on the citizen scientists and the community’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding preventive measures.Item Enhancing Mental Health Counseling for Education Professionals in Africa: Addressing Unique Needs and Improving Outcomes(B P International, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Nalwoga, Viola; Kigongo, Eustes; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Musinguzi, Marvin; Okalo, Ponsiano; Shikanga, Enos MwirotsiIn the vibrant and varied educational landscapes of Africa, the voices of resilience, dedication, and passion often overshadow the quieter, yet significant, struggles faced by those who shape our future: the education professionals. As we delve into “Enhancing Mental Health Counseling for Education Professionals in Africa: Addressing Unique Needs and Improving Outcomes,” we approach this endeavor with profound respect and commitment to the well-being of those who nurture the minds of tomorrow. Education professionals hold a critical role in shaping both the intellectual and emotional development of the next generation. Their unwavering commitment to education lays the groundwork for a better future. However, in the pursuit of academic excellence, their own mental health often remains neglected. This book aims to shed light on the critical intersection of mental health and education, specifically addressing the unique challenges encountered by educators across the diverse African continent. Throughout these pages, we delve into the cultural and contextual factors that influence the experiences of education professionals in Africa. We emphasize that the well-being of educators is intrinsically linked to the health and effectiveness of the educational systems they support. By examining mental health counseling as a transformative tool, we highlight its potential to build resilience, promote self-care, and enhance overall professional satisfaction. This book is more than an academic exploration; it is a call to action. We urge educational institutions, policymakers, and communities to prioritize the mental health of their educators. We advocate for a shift in perspective, encouraging the creation of environments where seeking mental health support is seen not as a weakness but as a reflection of the strength and dedication inherent in the teaching profession. As we address the nuanced issues of mental health counseling tailored to the African educational context, we hope this book will serve as a comprehensive guide, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for positive change. It is our aspiration that this work will elevate the conversation around the mental well-being of education professionals and place it at the center of educational discourse. In our shared quest for educational excellence, let us remember that the well-being of those who facilitate learning is a fundamental pillar. Together, let us embark on a transformative journey to create nurturing and supportive environments for the individuals who are shaping the minds of the future. Keywords: Mental health counseling, education professionals, Africa, cultural sensitivity, resilience in education, and traditional practices in counselingItem Health-seeking behaviour regarding schistosomiasis treatment in the absence of a mass drug administration (MDA) program: the case of endemic communities along Lake Albert in Western Uganda(BMC Public Health, 2023) Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Nyakato, Viola Nilah; Huyse, Tine; Poels, Karolien; Masquillier, CarolineIntroduction Schistosomiasis poses a serious public health problem and a social challenge affecting over 240 million people, the majority of whom live in sub-Saharan Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends praziquantel (PZQ) drug treatment through regular mass drug administration (MDA) accompanied by social mobilisation and health education and sensitisation. With social mobilisation and health education and sensitisation, there is bound to be increased demand for the PZQ, especially in the case of endemic communities. However, it is not clear where communities go for PZQ treatment in the absence of PZQ MDA. We explored the health-seeking behaviours regarding schistosomiasis treatment among communities along Lake Albert in Western Uganda when MDA had delayed, to inform a review of the implementation policy for the achievement of the WHO’s 2030 target of 75% coverage and uptake. Methods and materials We conducted a community-based qualitative study in Kagadi and Ntoroko, an endemic community in January and February 2020. We interviewed 12 individuals: local leaders, village health teams, and health workers, and conducted 28 focus group discussion sessions with 251 purposively selected community members. The audio recordings of the data were transcribed and analyzed using a thematic analysis model. Results Generally, participants seldom seek medication for schistosomiasis-related signs and symptoms from government hospitals and health centres II, III and IV. Instead, they rely on community volunteers such as VHTs, private facilities, such as clinics and drug shops nearby, or traditional sources (e.g. witch doctors and herbalists). Results show that factors influencing people to seek treatment from sources other than the government are: the absence of PZQ drugs in the government health facility; health workers’ negative attitude towards patients; long distances to the government hospitals and health facilities; poor and inaccessible roads; medication-related costs; and negative perceptions of the PZQ drug. Conclusions Availability and accessibility of PZQ seem to be a big challenge. PZQ uptake is further hampered by health systems and community-related and socio-cultural factors. Thus there is a need to bring schistosomiasis drug treatment and services closer to endemic communities, stock nearby facilities with PZQ and encourage endemic communities to take the drug. Contextualised awareness-raising campaigns are needed to debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding the drug. Keywords Health-seeking behaviour, Mass drug administration, Endemic, Communities, Lake Albert, Praziquantel, Schistosomiasis, UgandaItem HIV/AIDS Stigma Reduction as a Risk Factor for New HIV Infections: A Lived Experience Study of HIV Positive Young Women in a Rural Setting(2022-06-05) Kabunga, Amir; Anyolitho, Maxson KennethBackground: HIV/AIDS-related stigma is a global problem among HIV patients with far-reaching implications. However, there is an increase in HIV infections, especially among young women. Objective: This study aimed at exploring the influence of HIV-related stigma on new infections among HIV-positive young women in a rural setting. Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory research design was used. In-depth interviews were used to collect data and analysis was done using a thematic approach. Results: The results showed that acceptance, counselling, and social support are some of the ways HIV-positive young women used to cope with stigma. The results also showed that While HIV-related reduction has influenced positively some HIV-positive young women, to others as HIV-related stigma reduces, young women living with HIV are likely to get involved in risky sexual activities thus increasing HIV transmission. Conclusions: As HIV-related stigma reduced, young women living with HIV are likely to get involved in risky sexual activities thus increasing HIV transmission. Based on the results, there is a need to understand the negative effects of HIV-related stigma reduction as this may have implications for the control of the HIV pandemic. Also, further research is needed to understand whether lessening HIV-related stigma encourages risky sexual behaviours among young women.Item Knowledge and perceptions of primary healthcare providers towards integration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) services at departmental levels at selected health facilities Lira district, Uganda(BMC Health Services Research, 2023) Puleh, Sean Steven; Ikwara, Emmanuel Asher; Namutebi, Syliviah; Nakero, Lakeri; Mwesiga, Godfrey; Isabirye, Rogers; Acen, Joy; Anyolitho, Maxson KennethBackground Investigations conducted among healthcare providers to assess their knowledge and perceptions towards the integration of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) related services in Sub-Saharan Africa are limited. This study explored the knowledge and perceptions of primary healthcare providers towards the integration of ART management services at departmental levels in health facilities in Lira district. Methods We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional survey that employed qualitative methods of data collection in four selected health facilities in Lira district between January and February 2022. The study involved in-depth interviews with key informants and focus group discussions. The study population consisted exclusively of primary healthcare providers; however, those who were not full-time employees of the participating health facilities were excluded. We used thematic content analysis. Results A significant proportion of staff (especially those who are not directly involved in ART) still lack full knowledge of ART services integration. There was generally a positive perception, with some suggesting ART integration can minimize stigma and discrimination. The potential barriers to integration included limited knowledge and skills for providing comprehensive ART services, insufficient staffing and space, funding gaps, and inadequate drug supplies, coupled with increased workload due to enlarged clientele. Conclusion Whereas healthcare workers are generally knowledgeable about ART integration, but their knowledge was limited to partial integration. The participants had a basic understanding of ART services being provided by different health facilities. Furthermore, participants viewed integration as critical, but it should be implemented in conjunction with ART management training. Given that respondents reported a lack of infrastructure, increased workload, and understaffing, additional investments in staff recruitment, motivation through training and incentives, and other means are needed if ART integration is to be implementedItem Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding schistosomiasis infection and prevention: A mixed-methods study among endemic communities of western Uganda(PLOS NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES, 2022) Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Poels, Karolien; Huyse, Tine; Tumusiime, Julius; Mugabi, Faith; Tolo, Casim Umba; Masquillier, Caroline; Nyakato, Viola NilahSchistosomiasis is one of the leading neglected tropical diseases, second to malaria in prevalence. In Uganda, more than 10 million people (25.6%) are currently infected, with prevalence in some areas as high as 90%, and more than 55% of the population is at risk. The most at-risk populations are the fishing communities and school-aged children. Despite the government’s prevention and control programs such as mass drug administration (MDA) and sensitization, infections and re-infections have continued to occur, even in areas where MDA has been implemented. Previous studies have linked this with risky behavior. However, information from western Uganda is inadequate. We conducted a mixed-methods study to assess community knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and to understand their opinions and perspectives regarding the disease. The study found that, whereas there is adequate knowledge of schistosomiasis and although there is a positive attitude toward avoiding water contact and the use of latrines, it is difficult to do so, something that could explain the persistent risky practices. The risky practices could also be compounded by myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease. These findings shall form the basis for the design and implementation of contextualized, community-based, participatory communication tools for behavior change. Community involvement in schistosomiasis prevention programs could lead to increased awareness about disease prevention and could debunk existing myths and misconceptions, thereby improving behaviors, practices, and habits, ultimately lowering infection.Item Mental Health during COVID-19 Pandemic: Does Social Support Count? A Cross-Sectional Survey among Lira University Students, Northern Uganda(PQ Neurology and Psychology, 2021) Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Kabunga, Amir; Anyayo, Lucas Goodgame; Nakaziba, RebeccaCOVID-19 pandemic that began in Wuhan, China towards the end of 2019 is the world’s catastrophe of the 21st-century. As a result, the pandemic has disrupted all sectors of the world’s economies including the education sector depending on their stages of implementation. For the case of tertiary and University institutions, most of them were about to begin examinations but which had to be put on halt as students had to go home. These disruptions could have serious mental health impacts on the individuals. We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess the mental health status and its association with social support during the COVID-19 lockdown among undergraduate students of Lira University. We used a non-probability convenience sampling technique to identify the students. We developed an online survey questionnaire using google form and sent to the students’ email and social media contacts. Responses were submitted directly to a google central server in an excel form and later exported to SPSS V.25 for analysis. We used descriptive statistical analysis to show frequency distributions, mean, and graphs and Chi-square test to establish possible relationships. More than half of the respondents, 57% were females, 34.63% were in the age group 21-22 years old, the majority were in the third year (33.97%). The majority of students were in good mental health and had positive social support. The findings also revealed a significant statistical association between social support and mental health status. Based on the results, there is a need to provide social support to students when they are at home during the pandemics such as the COVID-19 to ensure their mental health stability.Item Parents’ Readiness to Vaccinate Their Children Aged 5 to 17 Years Against Covid-19 and Its Associated Factors in Lira District, Uganda(Pediatric Health, Medicine and Therapeutics, 2023) Puleh, Sean Steven; Kigongo, Eustes; Opio, Innocent Ojok; Akech, Stella Immaculate; Opollo, Marc Sam; Achan, Everlyne; Acen, Joy; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Acup, Walter; Amir, KabungaBackground: Data on parents’ readiness to vaccinate their children aged 5 to 17 years against COVID-19 is still scarce. This study assessed parents’ readiness to vaccinate their children aged 5 to 17 years against COVID-19 and factors associated in Lira district, Uganda. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional survey employing quantitative methods was conducted between October and November 2022 among 578 parents of children aged 5–17 years in 3 sub-counties in Lira district. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics including means, percentages, frequencies, and odds ratios. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between the factors and the readiness of parents at a 95% level of significance. Results: Out of 634 participants, 578 responded to the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 91.2%. The majority of the parents (327, 56.8%) were female, had children aged between 12 and 15 years (266, 46.4%), and had completed primary education (351, 60.9%). Most of the parents were Christian (565, 98.4%), married (499, 86.6%), and had been vaccinated against COVID-19 (535, 92.6%). Results also indicated that 75.6% (ranging from 71.9% to 78.9%) of the parents were unwilling to vaccinate their children for the COVID-19 virus. The predictors of readiness were the age of the child (AOR: 2.02; 95% CI: 0.97–4.20; p=0.05) and lack of trust in the vaccine (AOR: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.95–5.71; p0.001). Conclusion: Our study shows that parents’ readiness to vaccinate their children aged 5 to 17 years was only 24.6%, which is suboptimal. The predictors of hesitancy were the age of the child and a lack of trust in the vaccine. Based on our results, the Ugandan authorities should provide health education interventions targeting parents to combat mistrust with respect to COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine and highlight the benefits of the vaccines. Keywords: children, minors, hesitancy, readiness, vaccinationItem Parents’ Readiness to Vaccinate Their Children Aged 5 to 17 Years Against Covid-19 and Its Associated Factors in Lira District, Uganda(Pediatric Health, Medicine and Therapeutics Dovepress, 2023) Puleh, Sean Steven; Kigongo, Eustes; Opio, Innocent Ojok; Akech, Stella Immaculate; Opollo, Marc Sam; Achan, Everlyne; Acen, Joy; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Acup, Walter; Kabunga, AmirBackground: Data on parents’ readiness to vaccinate their children aged 5 to 17 years against COVID-19 is still scarce. This study assessed parents’ readiness to vaccinate their children aged 5 to 17 years against COVID-19 and factors associated in Lira district, Uganda. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional survey employing quantitative methods was conducted between October and November 2022 among 578 parents of children aged 5–17 years in 3 sub-counties in Lira district. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics including means, percentages, frequencies, and odds ratios. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between the factors and the readiness of parents at a 95% level of significance. Results: Out of 634 participants, 578 responded to the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 91.2%. The majority of the parents (327, 56.8%) were female, had children aged between 12 and 15 years (266, 46.4%), and had completed primary education (351, 60.9%). Most of the parents were Christian (565, 98.4%), married (499, 86.6%), and had been vaccinated against COVID-19 (535, 92.6%). Results also indicated that 75.6% (ranging from 71.9% to 78.9%) of the parents were unwilling to vaccinate their children for the COVID-19 virus. The predictors of readiness were the age of the child (AOR: 2.02; 95% CI: 0.97–4.20; p=0.05) and lack of trust in the vaccine (AOR: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.95–5.71; p0.001). Conclusion: Our study shows that parents’ readiness to vaccinate their children aged 5 to 17 years was only 24.6%, which is suboptimal. The predictors of hesitancy were the age of the child and a lack of trust in the vaccine. Based on our results, the Ugandan authorities should provide health education interventions targeting parents to combat mistrust with respect to COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine and highlight the benefits of the vaccines.Item Personality and Mental Health among Lira University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic(International Journal of Academic Research in Psychology, 2020) Kabunga, Amir; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Anyayo, Lucas GoodgameAbstract COVID-19 pandemic is one of the 21st -century major health crises affecting the world. Due to the pandemic, education activities were disrupted and examinations were postponed. This could have far-reaching effects on the students both physically, socially, mentally, and emotionally. In this context, we conducted a cross-sectional study among undergraduate students at Lira University to assess whether there could be any relationship between their personality and mental health. A total of. Non-probability Volunteer and convenience sampling technique was used to select156 undergraduate students who participated in this study. Data was collected using a well-designed survey questionnaire and posted onto google form. Mental status was screened using the Mental Health Continuum Short Form while personality was screened using the Extraversion vs. Introversion Scale adapted from the Big Five Inventory. Both categorical and numerical data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Chi-square statistic was used to obtain the correlation between the variables. More than half, 55.77% of the participants were males, 42.95% were females while 1.28% did not disclose their gender. The results showed that 83.97% of the respondents had positive mental health, 14.74% had average mental health and 1.28% had poor mental health. The results showed that 88.46% were extroverts. Finally, the results revealed that there was a significant positive correlation between personality and mental health status. There is a need for mental health professionals to keep the mental health balance of students in the University. Counseling should also be planned along with online teaching. Besides, there is a need to understand the personality traits of students to deal with their mental health accordingly.Item The Potential of Citizen- Driven Monitoring of Freshwater Snails in Schistosomiasis Research(Citizen Science: Theory and Practice, 2021) Brees, Jef; Huyse, Tine; Tumusiime, Julius; Kagoro-Rugunda, Grace; Namirembe, Daisy; Mugabi, Faith; Nyakato, Viola; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Tolo, Casim Umba; Jacobs, LiesbetSchistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease affecting more than 200 million people worldwide, predominantly in Africa. The World Health Organization recently highlighted the importance of targeted control of the freshwater snails acting as intermediate hosts for the parasites causing schistosomiasis. However, because of a shortage of trained experts and resources, detailed information on spatiotemporal snail distributions, which is needed for targeted control measures, is often missing. We explore the potential of citizen science to build these much-needed datasets through fine-grained, frequent snail sampling. We trained a network of 25 citizen scientists to weekly report on snail host abundances in 77 predefined water contact sites in and around Lake Albert (western Uganda). Snail abundance, together with marked GPS locations, water chemistry parameters, and photographs of the identified snails are recorded and submitted using the freely available mobile phone application KoBoToolbox. Trained researchers then engage in remote, semi-automatic validation of the submissions, after which there is an opportunity to provide targeted feedback to the citizen scientists. Five months after the operationalisation of the network, a total of 570 reports were submitted and personalized feedback was given, resulting in lasting improvements in subsequent reporting and snail genus identification. The preliminary results show the possibility of citizen science to independently obtain reliable data on the presence of schistosome snail hosts. We therefore argue that citizen-driven monitoring on a high spatiotemporal resolution could help to generate the much-needed data to support local targeted snail control measures in remote and/or resource-limited environments.Item Prevalence of malaria in children under five and associated knowledge, attitude, and practices of prevention among caregivers in Amolatar district.(Lira University., 2024) Otim, Allan; Anyolitho, Maxson KennethBackground: Despite improvement in prevention and control programs over time, malaria remains a significant public heath burden in Uganda, contributing considerably to hospitalization and fatalities. This study determined the prevalence of malaria among children under five and the associated knowledge, attitudes, and practices of prevention among caregivers in Amolatar. Methods: A community -based cross-sectional study with mixed methods of data collection was conducted from 16th to 30th August 2023. Questionnaires were administered to 418 households to determine their KAP on malaria and estimate the prevalence of malaria among children under five. 14 participants were interviewed to determine their KAP about malaria. Results: The prevalence of malaria among children under five was found to be 38.76% (n=162) High income level, female gender, and having secondary and tertiary education were associated with lower risk of malaria. Meanwhile those who neglected to check windows to prevent mosquito and not willing to and not willing to have their house sprayed for mosquito control showed higher odds of malaria prevalence (Aor =2.73, 95% CI: 1.29-5.76, p=0.008 and (Aor =2.62, 95% CI: 1.37-5.00, P =0.004) respectively. Conclusions and Recommendations: Malaria prevalence was considerably impacted by aged, gender, income, and education levels. Malaria prevalence was lower in women and people aged 41 to 50. Amolatar district health department and partners should embark on massive “test and treat “initiatives for malaria in the community. Allocate resources for mass drug administrations during integrated community case management (ICCM) Keywords: Prevalence, malaria, children, knowledge, attitude, practices, prevention, and caregivers.Item Traditional herbal remedies for managing COVID-19 major symptoms: A case study of Kole district, Northern Uganda(TMR Pharmacology Research, 2021) Nakaziba, Rebecca; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Kabunga, AmirBackground: Today, the world is battling COVID-19 which has claimed millions of lives within a short period. As biotechnological research is in progress, it’s expedient to explore alternative sources of medication. Exploring plants that have been used in the management of COVID-19 related symptoms for ages may unveil a potential treatment option for this pestilence. We, therefore, conducted a study in Kole district, Northern Uganda to document the plants that are used in the management of the four key COVID-19 related symptoms including flue, cough, sore throat, and difficulty in breathing. Materials and Methods: We employed a cross-sectional quantitative survey design. We used stratified sampling to select 50 participants from each of the five sub-counties in the district, and convenience sampling to select a total of 250 participants and administered interviewer-administered questionnaires. Results: We identified over 50 herbs that are used in the treatment of COVID-19 related symptoms. However, we were able to report on the fourteen most common ones that belonged to 12 families in this paper. Clematis hirsute Perr. & Guill, (68.0%) and Citrus limon burm. F. (30.8%); Eucalyptus grandis M., (49.2%) and Zingibar officinalis, (28.0%); Conyza floribunda H.B.K. (26.4%) and Allium sativum A. (23.6%); Capparis tomentosa Lam. (19.4%) and Acacia hockii De Wild, (17.4%): for the treatment of flu, cough, sore throat and breathing difficulties respectively. Different plant parts of the diverse plant species were used in treating the symptoms. For Clematis hirsute Perr. & Guill, all plant parts were used differently to treat each of the 4 symptoms. Conclusion: Kole district possesses a multitude of herbs with the potential of treating COVID-19 symptoms. There is a need for further pharmacological investigations to validate their activity and possible development for clinical use in the management of COVID-19.Item Traditional herbal remedies for managing COVID-19 major symptoms: A case study of Kole district, Northern Uganda(TMR Pharmacology Research, 2021) Nakaziba, Rebecca; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Kabunga, AmirBackground: Today, the world is battling COVID-19 which has claimed millions of lives within a short period. As biotechnological research is in progress, it’s expedient to explore alternative sources of medication. Exploring plants that have been used in the management of COVID-19 related symptoms for ages may unveil a potential treatment option for this pestilence. We, therefore, conducted a study in Kole district, Northern Uganda to document the plants that are used in the management of the four key COVID-19 related symptoms including flue, cough, sore throat, and difficulty in breathing. Materials and Methods: We employed a cross-sectional quantitative survey design. We used stratified sampling to select 50 participants from each of the five sub-counties in the district, and convenience sampling to select a total of 250 participants and administered interviewer-administered questionnaires. Results: We identified over 50 herbs that are used in the treatment of COVID-19 related symptoms. However, we were able to report on the fourteen most common ones that belonged to 12 families in this paper. Clematis hirsute Perr. & Guill, (68.0%) and Citrus limon burm. F. (30.8%); Eucalyptus grandis M., (49.2%) and Zingibar officinalis, (28.0%); Conyza floribunda H.B.K. (26.4%) and Allium sativum A. (23.6%); Capparis tomentosa Lam. (19.4%) and Acacia hockii De Wild, (17.4%): for the treatment of flu, cough, sore throat and breathing difficulties respectively. Different plant parts of the diverse plant species were used in treating the symptoms. For Clematis hirsute Perr. & Guill, all plant parts were used differently to treat each of the 4 symptoms. Conclusion: Kole district possesses a multitude of herbs with the potential of treating COVID-19 symptoms. There is a need for further pharmacological investigations to validate their activity and possible development for clinical use in the management of COVID-19.Item Traditional Medicinal Vegetables in Northern Uganda: An Ethnobotanical Survey(International Journal of Food Science, 2021) Nakaziba, Rebecca; Anyolitho, Maxson Kenneth; Amanya, Sharon Bright; Sesaazi, Crispin Duncan; Byarugaba, Frederick; Ogwal-Okeng, Jasper; Alele, Paul E.Background. A wide range of indigenous vegetables grow in Uganda especially during rainy seasons but scarcely during droughts, except those that are commercially grown. Although a number of these vegetables have medicinal values, they have not been satisfactorily studied besides conservation. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey in Northern Uganda in order to document traditional medicinal vegetables and their uses. Methods. Qualitative and quantitative approaches of data collection and analysis were employed using semistructured, interviewer-administered questionnaires as well as key informant interviews following international ethical codes. Fidelity levels and informant consensus factors were also calculated. Results. 13 traditional vegetables belonging to 10 families were reported to serve as folk medicines. The most dominant families were Fabaceae (23.08%) and Solanaceae (15.38%). The most often used vegetables were Corchorus spp., Hibiscus spp., and Asystasiagangeticafor musculoskeletal (51%), gastrointestinal (34.3%), and malaria (31.8%). The vegetables were cultivated in the backyard and the leaves stewed for the different ailments. The informant consensus factor was the highest for Corchorus spp., in the treatment of joint pain/stiffness (0.92-1) while the highest fidelity level was (60.42%) for Amaranthus spp., in the management of anemia. Conclusions. Northern Uganda has numerous traditional vegetables with medicinal benefits. Diseases treated range from gastrointestinal to reproductive through musculoskeletal abnormalities. The community obtains vegetable leaves from the backyard and stews them regularly for the medicinal purposes with no specific dosage. Therefore, we recommend studies to verify in laboratory models the efficacy of these vegetables and standardize the dosages