Association between visceral leishmaniasis awareness and diagnostic and management capacity among healthcare workers in public health facilities in Isiolo County, Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20262689Keywords:
Public health facilities, Healthcare providers, Diagnostic capacity, Neglected tropical diseases, Awareness and awareness, Visceral leishmaniasisAbstract
Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) remains a major neglected tropical disease in Kenya, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions such as Isiolo County. Delayed diagnosis, low clinical suspicion, and inadequate awareness among healthcare workers contribute to poor disease outcomes despite the availability of effective treatment. This study assessed the association between healthcare workers’ awareness of VL and their capacity to diagnose the disease in public health facilities in Isiolo County, Kenya.
Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among 243 healthcare workers recruited through a census approach from Sub-County and county health facilities in Isiolo County. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-square test, and binary logistic regression were used, with statistical significance set at p≤0.05.
Results: Moderate VL awareness was observed, with 73.3% demonstrating adequate awareness (mean score 6.03±1.678). More than half correctly identified cause (54.3%), vector (62.6%), transmission (61.7%), symptoms (59.3%), spleen involvement (67.1%), diagnosis and treatment (60.1%), and prevention (63.4%), although only 48.1% identified endemic regions. Diagnostic capacity was low, with only 37.9% of facilities demonstrating adequate capacity, while 71.2% reported poor management capacity. There was no significant association between awareness and diagnostic capacity (p>0.05), except organ awareness and management capacity (χ²=8.294, p=0.040), though regression showed reduced odds (OR=0.092).
Conclusions: Healthcare workers demonstrated moderate VL awareness, but diagnostic capacity and preparedness remained inadequate. Awareness of VL did not significantly influence diagnostic capacity, highlighting the need to strengthen training, diagnostic resources, and health system preparedness.
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