Patient socio-demographics and clinical factors associated with malaria mortality: a case control study in the northern region of Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Ghana is a malaria-endemic country with the entire population at risk. The Northern region of the country recorded the highest malaria case fatality rate (CFR) for two consecutive years: 1.11% in 2013 and 1.07% in 2014. Even though the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) has achieved a reduction in malaria mortality, the existence of high case fatality in the Northern region was alarming. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the factors associated with malaria mortality in the northern region of Ghana to institute control measures. METHODS: An unmatched case control study was conducted from July 2015 to August 2015. The study population consisted of patients admitted to health facilities for severe malaria in the Northern region of Ghana. A case was defined as a patient diagnosed with severe malaria at an eligible health facility who died as a result of malaria. A control was a patient diagnosed with severe malaria admitted to an eligible health facility who did not die. Health facilities that recorded CFRs of 1.0% and above were randomly sampled for this study, after which, 10 cases and 20 controls were recruited from each health facility. Information on cases and controls was then abstracted from hospital records using an electronically deployed abstraction tool. Continuous variables were expressed as means and medians, and categorical variables as frequencies and proportions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the strength of the association between malaria mortality and factors predictive of malaria mortality. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: In all, a total of 95 cases and 190 controls participated in this study. The median ages of cases and controls were 4.1 years (IQR = 21.6) and 5.7 years (IQR = 18.2), respectively. Fifty-four (56.8%) cases were females, while 93 (49.0%) of the controls were females. Factors associated with malaria mortality included: duration of hospital stay less than 24 h [aOR: 12.0, 95% CI (5.9-24.6)], severe pallor [aOR: 2.3, 95% CI (1.1-4.6)], children under 5 years [aOR: 2.8, 95% CI (1.4-5.6)], oral Artesunate/Amodiaquine administration [aOR: 0.4, 95% CI (0.2-0.9)] and sepsis as an additional diagnosis [aOR: 4.1, 95% CI (1.8-9.5)]. CONCLUSION: Predictors of malaria mortality in the Northern region include children under 5 years, severe pallor, sepsis as an additional diagnosis, and use of oral anti-malarial. Patients with severe pallor and sepsis as co-morbidities should receive proactive management. The NMEP and its partners should implement measures to strengthen the referral system, anaemia prevention and management, and retrain health workers on malaria case management. Malaria control interventions targeted at under five children in the region should be reviewed and enhanced.

Reduction in diarrhea cases following implementation of COVID-19 hand hygiene interventions in Ghana: A causal impact analysis.

BACKGROUND: The human hand has constant contact with the environment, hence requires regular hand hygiene. Hand hygiene has gained recognition because of the COVID-19 pandemic and is a largely effective, affordable preventive measure against infectious diseases. This study used both national and sub-national analyses to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 handwashing guidelines on instances of diarrhea in Ghana. METHODS: Data on diarrhea cases spanning February 2018 and March 2022 were retrieved from the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS 2) using a data extraction guide. The data were summarized using descriptive statistics. The difference in diarrhea cases between the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods was measured using a two-sample t-test across Ghana's 16 administrative areas. Causal Impact package in R statistical software was employed to determine the impact of the introduction of COVID-19 hand hygiene protocols on diarrheal disease. RESULTS: A total of 5,645,533 diarrheal cases reported between February 2018 and March 2022 through the routine MIS (DHIMS2) were examined. Fifty-three percent of the cases occurred before the introduction of the hand hygiene protocol. Descriptive statistics indicated a statistically significant decrease in average diarrheal cases during the hand hygiene implementation era (13,463 cases reduction, p<0.001). Sub-national analyses revealed significant reductions in various regions: Greater Accra, Ashanti, Ahafo, Central, Eastern, Northern, Upper East, Upper West, and Volta (p<0.05). Causal impact analysis confirmed 11.0% nationwide reduction in diarrheal cases attributed to the COVID-19 hand hygiene protocols (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: This study underscores the effectiveness of COVID-19 hand hygiene protocols in reducing diarrheal morbidity in Ghana, with varying regional impacts. These findings advocate for the sustenance of investments and commitments made at the COVID hand hygiene protocols, particularly in this era where the pandemic appears controlled.

Assessing LLIN distribution implementation using evidence-informed intervention core elements: a qualitative study in a resource-constrained setting.

BACKGROUND: The National Malaria Elimination Programme implements the mass LLIN Distribution Campaigns in Ghana. Implementation science promotes the systematic study of social contexts, individual experiences, real-world environments, partnerships, and stakeholder consultations regarding the implementation of evidence-informed interventions. In this paper, we assess the core elements of the mass LLIN distribution campaign in a resource constrained setting to learn best implementation practices. Three core domains were assessed through the application of Galbraith's taxonomy (i.e., implementation, content, and pedagogy) for evidence-informed intervention implementation. METHODS: Six districts in two regions (Eastern and Volta) in Ghana participated in this study. Fourteen Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted across these communities. Eligible participants were purposively sampled considering age, occupation, gender, and care giving for children under 5 years and household head roles. All audio-recorded FGDs were transcribed verbatim, data was assessed and coded through deductive and inductive processes. NVivo software version 13 was used for the coding process. Themes were refined, legitimized, and the most compelling extracts selected to produce the results. RESULTS: Sixty-nine (69) caregivers of children under 5 years and sixty (60) household heads participated in the FGDs. All caregivers were females (69), whilst household heads included more males (41). Core elements identified under implementation domain of the LLIN distribution campaign in Ghana include the registration and distribution processes, preceded by engagement with traditional authorities and continuous involvement of community health volunteers during implementation. For pedagogy domain, core elements include delivery of intervention through outreaches, illustrations, demonstrations, and the use of multiple communication channels. Core elements realized within the content domain include information on effective malaria prevention, and provision of information to enhance their self-efficacy. Yet, participants noted gaps (e.g., misuse) in the desired behavioural outcome of LLIN use and a heavy campaign focus on women. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Although the implementation of the mass LLIN distribution campaigns exhibit components of core elements of evidence informed interventions (implementation, content and pedagogy), it has not achieved its desired behavioural change intentions (i.e. continuous LLIN use). Future campaigns may consider use of continuous innovative pedagogical approaches at the community level and lessons learnt from this study to strengthen the implementation process of evidence-based health interventions. There is also the need for standardization of core elements to identify the number of core elements required within each domain to achieve efficacy. ETHICAL APPROVAL: Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ghana Health Service Ethics Review Committee (GHS-ERC: 002/06/21) before the commencement of all data collection.

Patterns and predictors of malaria among head porters: a mobile population in Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Head porters popularly known as 'Kayayeis in Ghana, face challenges in accessing essential health care services due to the mobile nature of their trade, low formal education, poor settlements, low-income among others. Kayayeis are predominantly females and form part of the mobile population who are at increased risk of malaria infection. Despite their increased risk of malaria, mobile populations are difficult to target for malaria interventions, hence serving as potential drivers of transmission even if malaria in the general population is controlled. The study, therefore, assessed the patterns and predictors of malaria among the Kayayei population in Ghana to inform policy decisions. METHODS: A mixed methods study was conducted among Head-porters and their leaders in the three main hubs of Head-porters in Ghana; namely Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale. Blood samples were collected from participants and tested for malaria parasites using Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT). Additionally, data including socio-demographics, malaria knowledge, attitude and practice were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Associations between malaria status and participants characteristics were determined by logistic regression (p < 0.05). Thematic analysis was used to analyse transcripts from the key informant interviews. RESULTS: Out of 754 head porters studied, 10.48% (79) tested positive for malaria. The majority 43.10% (325/754) of the head porters were twenty years and below, and most 67.11% (506/754) had no formal education. Nearly half (50.4%) were not on any health insurance. Receiving malaria education in the past 6 months [AOR = 0.48, (0.26-0.88), p-value 0.02], and having poor knowledge of malaria [AOR = 2.23, (1.26-4.27), p < 0.02], were the factors significantly associated with malaria infection. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of malaria among 'Kayayei's was estimated at 10.46%. A majority of them sleeps outside and in structures without mosquito screens. Receiving malaria education in the past 6 months reduced the odds of malaria infection whilst poor knowledge of malaria increased the odds of malaria infection among the porters. The authors recommend that the National Malaria Elimination Programme and partners should provide long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) and other outdoor interventions for use by this special group. Designated state institutions should arrange free National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration for 'Kayayeis' to narrow the health access gap.

Implementation and effectiveness outcomes of Community Health Advocacy Teams to improve long-lasting insecticide net distribution and use in six districts in Ghana: A one-group pre-post-test study.

Malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death especially among children and pregnant women in Ghana. Despite the efforts made by the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), including distribution of Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) to households through periodic Point Mass Distribution (PMD) campaigns and continuous channels (antenatal, schools and postnatal), there is a gap between access and use of LLINs in Ghana. An effective and functional community-based group that would seek to improve the effectiveness of LLIN distribution before, during, after PMD Campaigns and continuous distribution at the community level could help address this gap. This paper assesses the implementation outcomes and short-term effectiveness of the pilot implementation of co-created community health advocacy teams (CHAT) intervention in Ghanaian communities to plan and implement campaigns to increase LLIN use. The study employed a one-group pre-post study design and measured implementation outcomes (acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility) and effectiveness outcomes (LLIN awareness, LLIN access, willingness to purchase LLIN, and LLIN use) among 800 community households. The CHAT intervention was implemented for four months across six districts in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The data were downloaded directly from REDCap and analyzed statistically (descriptive and McNemar test of association) using SPSS 22 software. After the implementation period, the majority of respondents in all six districts indicated that the CHAT intervention was acceptable (89.8%), appropriate (89.5%), and feasible (90%). Also, there was a significant association between baseline and end-line assessment on all four effectiveness outcome measures. Household members' awareness of, access to, willingness to purchase, and use of LLINs increased significantly over the four-month period that the CHAT intervention was implemented. The study concludes that CHAT is an acceptable, appropriate, and feasible intervention for supporting the National Malaria Programme in LLIN PMD and for engaging in Social and Behaviour Change Communication activities through the continuous channels of distribution. Additionally, the CHAT demonstrates short-term effectiveness outcomes in terms of creating LLIN awareness, providing access to LLIN, and encouraging Ghanaian community members to be willing to purchase and use LLINs. Although the activities of CHAT members were largely voluntary, integration into the existing primary health care system will make it sustainable.

A retrospective analysis of malaria deaths in the pre- and intra- COVID 19 pandemic era, Ghana, 2016-2021.

BACKGROUND: Global efforts over the years have resulted in a 27% reduction in malaria incidence and an estimated 51% reduction in malaria mortality since 2000. Meanwhile, COVID-19 pandemic disrupted provision and utilization of malaria services, leading to a surge in malaria incidence and mortality. Globally, 627000 malaria deaths were recorded in 2020, representing about 69000 more deaths compared to 2019. Also, 14 million more cases of malaria were recorded in 2020 compared to 2019. This study sought to determine whether excess malaria deaths were recorded in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic era. METHODS: This was a descriptive study on routine malaria mortality data in Ghana for the period 2016 to 2021. Data was retrieved from the District Health Information Management System using a data extraction guide. Excess mortality was defined as occurrence of malaria deaths more than expected value for the period 2020 and 2021. The expected number of mortalities for 2020 and 2021 were determined using 2016 to 2019 average. Excess mortality (P-score) was estimated using the formula: [(reported mortalities-expected mortalities)/expected mortalities X 100%]. Data were summarized and processed in Microsoft excel version 16.0. Malaria mortality in Ghana and its regions was described using tables and line graphs. RESULTS: An average of 535 malaria deaths per year were recorded nationwide from 2016 to 2020. About 50% (1603/3207) of deaths occurred in children aged less than five years. The p-scores for the country were -53% and -58% for 2020 and 2021 respectively. No region recorded excess all-age malaria mortality in 2020, rather significant reduction. Stratified by age, Greater Accra region reported 90% higher than expected deaths among persons aged five years and above in 2020 (p-score = 90%, 95% CI: 21-159). All regions reported reduction in under-five mortality in 2020. No significant excess malaria mortalities were reported among the regions in 2021. CONCLUSION: Although negative p-scores suggested a decline in malaria mortalities nationwide, some regions recorded excess deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic era. There is a need to integrate COVID-19 control activities with malaria control and prevention efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on malaria case management and mortality.

Correction: Genotypic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency protects against Plasmodium falciparum infection in individuals living in Ghana.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257562.].

Pilot implementation of community health advocacy teams to improve the effectiveness of long-lasting insecticide net distribution through both campaigns and continuous channels in Ghana: a qualitative study of opportunities and barriers to implementation.

Introduction: In Ghana, the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) distributes long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) to households for free through the periodic point mass distribution (PMD) campaign and continuous distribution to populations most vulnerable to malaria. It is known that the existence of effective and functional community-based groups could influence positive behaviours regarding health interventions promoted through health campaigns. However, there is no evidence of functional community-based groups that aim to improve the effectiveness of LLIN distribution campaigns by transitioning into primary healthcare delivery. This study aimed to explore the opportunities and barriers to the pilot implementation of co-created community health advocacy teams (CHATs) to improve the effectiveness of LLIN distribution through both campaigns and continuous channels in Ghana. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used among 43 CHAT members across six communities in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The CHAT constitutes significant community actors whose roles are centred on key elements of community/social mobilisation and capacity building, all nested in social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) strategies. The CHATs were pilot implemented in all study communities for 4 months after which we identified opportunities and barriers during implementation. CHAT members participated in six focus group discussions which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically using the NVivo 13. Results: CHATs were instrumental in sensitising community members through SBCC strategies. Moreover, there were changes in the behaviour of community members who were receptive towards and participated in CHAT activities. Community members were accurately informed about malaria (e.g., causes and preventive measures). However, the CHAT experienced barriers during implementation, including a lack of financial support to aid in transportation, organisation of meetings, and outreach activities. Additionally, the level of participation by CHAT members in activities and the medium of communication among members were key areas of concern. Conclusion: The CHATs would be instrumental in promoting LLINs' use during and after PMD campaigns through community outreaches. It is therefore necessary to provide resources to support their operations and a good network to address communication barriers. Finally, continuous capacity strengthening of CHAT members by the NMCP is important.

Universal coverage and utilization of free long-lasting insecticidal nets for malaria prevention in Ghana: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Malaria continues to be one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, especially among children and pregnant women. The use of Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) has been recognized and prioritized as a major intervention for malaria prevention in Ghana. This study aims to establish the factors influencing the universal coverage and utilization of LLINs in Ghana. Methods: The data used for this study was from a cross-sectional survey carried out to assess LLINs ownership and use in 9 out of the 10 old regions of Ghana from October 2018 to February 2019 where free LLIN distribution interventions were implemented. The EPI "30 × 7" cluster sampling method (three-stage sampling design) was modified to "15 × 14" and used for the study. A total of 9,977 households were interviewed from 42 districts. Descriptive statistics using percentages as well as tests of associations such as Pearson Chi-square and the magnitude of the associations using simple and multivariable logistic regression were implemented. Results: Of the 9,977 households in the study, 88.0% of them owned at least one LLIN, universal coverage was 75.6%, while utilization was 65.6% among households with at least one LLIN. In the rural and urban areas, 90.8% and 83.2% of households, respectively, owned at least one LLIN. The was a 44% increase in universal coverage of LLINs in rural areas compared to urban areas (AOR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.02-2.02). There were 29 higher odds of households being universally covered if they received LLIN from the PMD (AOR: 29.43, 95% CI: 24.21-35.79). Households with under-five children were 40% more likely to utilize LLIN (AOR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.26-1.56). Respondents with universal coverage of LLIN had 25% increased odds of using nets (AOR: 1.25 95% CI: 1.06-1.48). Rural dwelling influences LLIN utilization, thus there was about 4-fold increase in household utilization of LLINs in rural areas compared to urban areas (AOR: 3.78, 95% CI: 2.73-5.24). Household size of more than 2 has high odds of LLINs utilization and awareness of the benefit of LLINs (AOR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.18-1.71). Conclusion: About nine in 10 households in Ghana have access at least to one LLIN, three-quarters had universal coverage, and over two-thirds of households with access used LLIN. The predictors of universal coverage included region of residence, rural dwellers, and PMD campaign, while households with child under-five, in rural areas, and with universal coverage were positively associated with utilization.

Efficiency of malaria service delivery in selected district-level hospitals in Ghana.

Malaria remains an important public health concern. Sub-Saharan African countries carry over 95% of the global burden. Unfortunately, there are also major resource constraints that have limited efforts to reduce the burden. Our study sought to estimate efficiency in the use of malaria resources and to identify potential determinants. We used primary data collected from district-level health facilities in three administrative regions in Ghana from 2014 to 2016. The Data Envelopment Analysis technique was used to estimate efficiency. The Malmquist productivity index was estimated and disaggregated to reflect the sources of productivity change. The findings show an average technical efficiency score of 0.61 with private facilities being more efficient. Productivity changes were driven by changes in technology/innovation advancements. Facility revenue mix and ownership type were important determinants of efficiency. The findings highlight the need to improve resource use in the delivery of specific services such as malaria.

Cost of inappropriate prescriptions for uncomplicated malaria in Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Malaria remains a common course of morbidity in many sub-Saharan African countries. While treatment options have improved in recent times, inappropriate prescription seems conventional among providers, increasing the burden on patients and society. This study examined the cost of inappropriate prescriptions for uncomplicated malaria treatment in Ghana. METHODS: This study used retrospective data collected from January to December 2016 in 27 selected facilities, under different ownership in three regions of the country, mainly Volta, Upper East and Brong Ahafo. Stratified random sampling technique was used to extract 1625 outpatient folders of patients diagnosed and treated for malaria. Two physicians independently reviewed patient folders according to the stated diagnoses. Malaria prescriptions were described as inappropriate when they do not adhere to the standard treatment guidelines. The economic cost was mainly treatment cost which was sourced as medication cost. Total and average costs for country were calculated using sample estimates and the total number of uncomplicated malaria cases that received inappropriate prescriptions. RESULTS: The study revealed that patients received an average of two prescriptions per malaria episode. Artemether-lumefantrine (AL) was the major malaria medication (79.5%) prescribed to patients. Other medications usually antibiotics and vitamins and minerals were included in the prescription. More than 50% of prescribers did not follow the guidelines for prescribing medications to clients. By facility type, inappropriate prescription was high in the CHPS compounds (59.1%) and by ownership, government (58.3%), private (57.5%) and mission facilities (50.7%). Thus, about 55% of malaria prescriptions were evaluated as inappropriate during the review period, which translates into economic cost of approximately US$4.52 million for the entire country in 2016. The total cost of inappropriate prescription within the study sample was estimated at US$1,088.42 while the average cost was US$1.20. CONCLUSION: Inappropriate prescription for malaria is a major threat to malaria management in Ghana. It presents a huge economic burden to the health system. Training and strict enforcement of prescribers' adherence to the standard treatment guideline is highly recommended.

Creating interventions to transition long-lasting insecticide net distribution in Ghana.

OBJECTIVE: Mass long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) distribution campaigns are rolled out, as a part of the Ghana Malaria Strategic plan (2021-2025) which seeks to protect at least 80% of the population at risk with effective malaria prevention interventions. Although the mass LLIN distribution campaign indicates a comprehensive stakeholder engagement approach, it does not systematically transition into the basic primary healthcare structures within the Ghana Health Services. This paper presents the process and outcome of creating an innovative social intervention, which focuses on community mobilisation and capacity building of community health officers. METHODS: This study employed a concurrent triangulation mixed methods approach conducted across six districts in Eastern and Volta regions, Ghana. Findings were synthesised, grouped and further distilled to guide the participatory cocreation workshops. Cocreation involved participatory learning in action technique which is a practical, adaptive research strategy which enabled diverse groups and individuals to learn, work and act together in a cooperative manner. RESULTS: The results suggest the establishment of a Community Health Advocacy Team (CHAT). This would be necessary in efforts aimed at transitioning LLIN distribution campaign in communities. The role of the CHAT would be centred on key elements of community/social mobilisation and capacity building, all nested in a social and behaviour change communication strategies. CONCLUSION: The research team is in the process of assessing the acceptability and feasibility of the CHAT intervention with all stakeholders in the various communities. Assessment of the effectiveness of the CHAT intervention would be done at a later time.

Nationwide Surveillance of Pfhrp2 Exon 2 Diversity in Plasmodium falciparum Circulating in Symptomatic Malaria Patients Living in Ghana.

Reports of increasing false-negative HRP2-based rapid diagnostic test results across Africa require constant monitoring of factors associated with these false-negative outcomes, as failure of this diagnostic tool will have severe consequences on malaria treatment and control programs. This study characterized the extent of genetic diversity in the Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (Pfhrp2) gene in P. falciparum isolates from symptomatic malaria patients across the regions of Ghana. Exon 2 of Pfhrp2 was amplified from gDNA using polymerase chain reaction. All Pfhrp2-negative samples were subjected to Pf18S rRNA and Pfmsp2 gene amplifications. The amplified Pfhrp2 exon 2 fragments from clonal samples were sent for commercial Sanger sequencing. The type and number of PfHRP2 repeats, classified based on repeat types previously reported, were estimated from the sequence data and compared among geographical regions. About 81% (2,333/2,890) of the original microscopy positive DBS were available and used in this study. The Pfhrp2 exon 2 amplification was successful in 98.5% (2,297/2,333) of the tested samples, with band size ranging from 400 bp to 1,050 bp. A total of 13 out of the 24 previously reported repeat types were identified among the samples, with three samples lacking both type 2 and type 7 repeat motifs. This study suggested that the genetic diversity of Pfhrp2 exon 2 identified in P. falciparum circulating in symptomatic malaria patients in Ghana is unlikely to influence the sensitivity and specificity of HRP2 RDT-based diagnosis.

Nationwide molecular surveillance of three Plasmodium species harboured by symptomatic malaria patients living in Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Clinical presentations of malaria in Ghana are primarily caused by infections containing microscopic densities of Plasmodium falciparum, with a minor contribution from Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale. However, infections containing submicroscopic parasite densities can result in clinical disease. In this study, we used PCR to determine the prevalence of three human malaria parasite species harboured by suspected malaria patients attending healthcare facilities across the country. METHODS: Archived dried blood spots on filter paper that had been prepared from whole blood collected from 5260 patients with suspected malaria attending healthcare facilities across the country in 2018 were used as experimental material. Plasmodium species-specific PCR was performed on DNA extracted from the dried blood spots. Demographic data and microscopy data for the subset of samples tested were available from the original study on these specimens. RESULTS: The overall frequency of P. falciparum, P. malariae and P. ovale detected by PCR was 74.9, 1.4 and 0.9%, respectively. Of the suspected symptomatic P. falciparum malaria cases, 33.5% contained submicroscopic densities of parasites. For all regions, molecular diagnosis of P. falciparum, P. malariae and P. ovale was significantly higher than diagnosis using microscopy: up to 98.7% (75/76) of P. malariae and 97.8% (45/46) of P. ovale infections detected by PCR were missed by microscopy. CONCLUSION: Plasmodium malariae and P. ovale contributed to clinical malaria infections, with children aged between 5 and 15 years harbouring a higher frequency of P. falciparum and P. ovale, whilst P. malariae was more predominant in individuals aged between 10 and 20 years. More sensitive point-of-care tools are needed to detect the presence of low-density (submicroscopic) Plasmodium infections, which may be responsible for symptomatic infections.

Therapeutic efficacy of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine combination for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ghana.

In 2020, Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine (DHAP) was adopted as a second-line antimalarial for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ghana following a review of the country's antimalarial medicines policy. Available data obtained in 2007 had shown PCR-uncorrected therapeutic efficacy of 93.3% using a 28-day follow-up schedule. In 2020, the standard 42-day follow-up schedule for DHAP was used to estimate efficacy levels among febrile children aged 6 months to 9 years in three malaria sentinel sites representing the three main ecological zones of the country- savannah, forest, and coastal. PCR genotyping distinguished between recrudescence and re-infection using merozoite surface protein 2 (MSP2)-specific primers for FC27 and 3D7 strains. Per protocol analyses showed day 28 efficacy of 100% in all three sentinel sites with day 42 PCR-corrected efficacy ranging between 90.3% (95% CI: 80.1 - 96.4%) in the savannah zone and 100% in the forest and coastal zones, yielding a national average of 97.0% (95% CI: 93.4 - 98.8). No day 3 parasitemia was observed in all three sites. Prevalence of measured fever (axillary temperature ≥ 37.5°C) declined from 50.0 - 98.8% on day 0 to 7.1-11.5% on day 1 whilst parasitemia declined from 100% on day 0 to 1.2 - 2.3% on day 1. Mean haemoglobin levels on days 28 and 42 were significantly higher than pre-treatment levels in all three sites. We conclude that DHAP is highly efficacious in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ghana. This data will serve as baseline for subsequent DHAP efficacy studies in the country.

Evaluation of pilot implementation of seasonal malaria chemoprevention on morbidity in young children in Northern Sahelian Ghana.

BACKGROUND: In Sahelian Africa, the risk of malaria increases with the arrival of the rains, particularly in young children. Following successful trials, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the use of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) in areas with seasonal peak in malaria cases. This study evaluated the pilot implementation of SMC in Northern Ghana. METHODS: Fourteen communities each serving as clusters were selected randomly from Lawra District of Upper West Region as intervention area and West Mamprusi District in the Northern Region as the non-intervention area. The intervention was undertaken by the National Malaria Control Programme in collaboration with regional health directorates using sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine plus amodiaquine and standard WHO protocols. Before and after surveys for malaria parasitaemia and haemoglobin levels as well as monitoring for malaria morbidity and mortality were undertaken. RESULTS: At the end of the intervention, participant retention was 92.9% (697/731) and 89.5% (634/708) in the intervention and the non-intervention areas, respectively. The proportion of children with asexual parasites reduced by 19% (p = 0.000) in the intervention and increased by 12% (p = 0.000) in the non-intervention area. Incidence rates of severe malaria were 10 and 20 per 1000 person-years follow up in the intervention and comparison areas, respectively with P.E of 45% (p = 0.62). For mild malaria, it was 220 and 170 per 1000 person-years in intervention and comparison area, respectively with PE of - 25% (p = 0.31). The proportion of children with anaemia defined as Hb< 11.0 g/dl reduced from 14.2% (52.8-38.6%) in the intervention area as compared to an increase of 8.1% (54.5% to 62.6) the non-intervention arm, Mean Hb reduced by 0. 24 g/dl (p = 0.000) in the non-intervention area and increased of 0.39 g/dl (p = 000) in the intervention area. CONCLUSIONS: The feasibility and effectiveness of SMC introduction in Northern Ghana was demonstrated as evidenced by high study retention, reduction in malaria parasitaemia and anaemia during the wet season.

Genotypic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency protects against Plasmodium falciparum infection in individuals living in Ghana.

INTRODUCTION: The global effort to eradicate malaria requires a drastic measure to terminate relapse from hypnozoites as well as transmission via gametocytes in malaria-endemic areas. Primaquine has been recommended for the treatment of P. falciparum gametocytes and P. vivax hypnozoites, however, its implementation is challenged by the high prevalence of G6PD deficient (G6PDd) genotypes in malaria endemic countries. The objective of this study was to profile G6PDd genotypic variants and correlate them with malaria prevalence in Ghana. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of G6PDd genotypic variants was conducted amongst suspected malaria patients attending health care facilities across the entire country. Malaria was diagnosed using microscopy whilst G6PD deficiency was determined using restriction fragment length polymorphisms at position 376 and 202 of the G6PD gene. The results were analysed using GraphPad prism. RESULTS: A total of 6108 subjects were enrolled in the study with females representing 65.59% of the population. The overall prevalence of malaria was 36.31%, with malaria prevalence among G6PDd genotypic variants were 0.07% for A-A- homozygous deficient females, 1.31% and 3.03% for AA- and BA- heterozygous deficient females respectively and 2.03% for A- hemizygous deficient males. The odd ratio (OR) for detecting P. falciparum malaria infection in the A-A- genotypic variant was 0.0784 (95% CI: 0.0265-0.2319, p<0.0001). Also, P. malariae and P. ovale parasites frequently were observed in G6PD B variants relative to G6PD A- variants. CONCLUSION: G6PDd genotypic variants, A-A-, AA- and A- protect against P. falciparum, P. ovale and P. malariae infection in Ghana.

Effectiveness of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) in Ghana.

INTRODUCTION: Ghana adopted the revised WHO recommendation on intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy using sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) in 2012. This study has assessed the effectiveness and safety of this policy in Ghana. METHODS: A total of 1926 pregnant women enrolled at antenatal care (ANC) clinics were assessed for birth outcomes at delivery, and placental histology results for malaria infection were obtained from 1642 participants. Association of reduced placental or peripheral malaria, anaemia and low birth weight (LBW) in women who received ≥4 IPTp-SP doses compared with 3 or ≤2 doses was determined by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Among the 1926 participants, 5.3% (103), 19.2% (369), 33.2% (640) and 42.3% (817) of women had received ≤1, 2, 3 or ≥4 doses, respectively. There was no difference in risk of active placental malaria (PM) infection in women who received 3 doses compared with ≥4 doses (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.00, 95% CI 0.47 to 2.14). The risk of overall PM infection was 1.63 (95% CI 1.07 to 2.48) in 2 dose group and 1.06 (95% CI 0.72 to 1.57) in 3 dose group compared with ≥4 dose group. The risk of LBW was 1.55 (95% CI 0.97 to 2.47) and 1.06 (95% CI 0.68 to 1.65) for 2 and 3 dose groups, respectively, compared with the ≥4 dose group. Jaundice in babies was present in 0.16%, and 0% for women who received ≥4 doses of SP. CONCLUSION: There was no difference in the risk of PM, LBW or maternal anaemia among women receiving 3 doses compared with ≥4 doses. Receiving ≥3 IPTp-SP doses during pregnancy was associated with a lower risk of overall PM infection compared with 2 doses. As there are no safety concerns, monthly administration of IPTp-SP offers a more practical opportunity for pregnant women to receive ≥3 doses during pregnancy.

Malaria parasitaemia and mRDT diagnostic performances among symptomatic individuals in selected health care facilities across Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Parasitological diagnosis generates data to assist malaria-endemic countries determine their status within the malaria elimination continuum and also inform the deployment of proven interventions to yield maximum impact. This study determined prevalence of malaria parasitaemia and mRDT performances among febrile patients in selected health care facilities across Ghana. METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional survey conducted in the previously 10 regions of Ghana from May to August 2018. Each patient suspected to have uncomplicated malaria was tested using microscopy and two malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs): routinely used CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 (Pf) and SD Bioline Malaria Ag Pf (HRP2/pLDH). Main outcome variables were malaria slide and CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 (Pf) positivity rates; and diagnostic accuracy of CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 (Pf) and SD Bioline Malaria Ag Pf (HRP2/pLDH) using microscopy as "gold standard". RESULTS: Overall parasite positivity rates were 32.3% (6266/19402) by mRDT and 16.0% (2984/18616) by microscopy, with Plasmodium falciparum mono-infection accounting for 98.0% of all infections. The odds of parasitaemia by microscopy was significantly lower among female patients compared with males (OR = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.66-0.91), and among patients with history of previous antimalarial intake compared with those with no such history (OR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.54-0.95). Overall sensitivity of CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 (Pf) was statistically similar to that of the HRP2 band of SD Bioline Malaria Ag Pf (HRP2/pLDH) combo kit (95.4%; 95% CI: 94.6-96.1 vs 94.3%; 95% CI: 93.4-95.1; p = 0.065) but significantly higher than the pLDH band (89.3%; 95% CI: 88.1-90.4; p < 0.001). The same pattern was observed for negative predictive value. CONCLUSIONS: Malaria control interventions should be targeted at the general population, and history of antimalarial intake considered a key predictor of malaria slide negativity. Furthermore, HRP2-based mRDTs remain effective diagnostic tool in the management of suspected uncomplicated malaria in the country.

Tuberculosis surveillance system evaluation: case of Ga West municipality, Ghana, 2011 to 2016.

BACKGROUND: Evaluate the Tuberculosis (TB) surveillance system in the Ga West Municipality to determine if it is achieving its objectives, and to assess its attributes and usefulness. DESIGN: Descriptive analysis of primary and secondary data. DATA SOURCE: Stakeholder interviews and record reviews on the objectives and operation of the surveillance system at all levels of the system. INTERVENTION: We evaluated the system's operation from 2011-2015 using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated guidelines for evaluating public health surveillance systems and the World Health Organisation (WHO) TB surveillance checklist for assessing the performance of national surveillance systems. RESULTS: The TB surveillance system in the municipality was functional and operated at all levels for timely detection of cases, accurate diagnosis, and case management. The system improved management of TB/HIV co-infections. The average time taken to confirm a suspected TB case was one day. The registration of a confirmed case and subsequent treatment happen immediately after confirmation. The municipality detected 109 of 727 TB cases in 2015 (case detection rate=15%). The positive predictive value (PPV) was 6.4%. There was one diagnostic centre in the municipality. Private facilities involvement in TB surveillance activities was low (1/15). CONCLUSION: The Tuberculosis surveillance system in the Ga West Municipality is well structured but partially meeting its objectives. The system is timely, stable and acceptable by most stakeholders and useful at all levels. It has no major data quality issues. Private health facilities in the municipality should be well incorporated into TB surveillance. FUNDING: This work was supported by Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (GFELTP), University of Ghana through the support of the West Africa Health Organization (Ref.: Prog/A17IEpidemSurveillN° 57212014/mcrt) to B-YA.