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Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake and its Associated Factors among Rural Health Extension Workers of Jimma Zone, South West Ethiopia
No full textBackground: Cervical cancer is the uncontrolled multiplication of normal cells of the cervix that
arises from the squamous columnar junction. It is one of the major public health problems in
Ethiopia. Despite efforts to improve the cervical cancer program in recent years, the uptake and
utilization of cervical cancer screening remain very low. This study aimed to assess the
prevalence of cervical cancer screening utilization and identify determinant factors affecting it
among Jimma zone rural health extension workers.
Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in selected six districts of
Jimma Zone from May 1 to 15 2025. A total of 266 health extension workers were recruited
using a simple random sampling technique from each district after a proportional allocation of
study samples for each district. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire, entered into
Epidata version 4.6, and then exported to SPSS version 27. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic
regression analyses were employed to see the association between cervical cancer screening
uptake and the explanatory variables. Variables with P value < 0.25 were selected as candidate
variables for multi-variable logistic regression. The outputs from the regression analysis were
reported at P-Value < 0.05 using an Adjusted Odds Ratio with their 95% CIs.
Results: The mean age of the respondents was 32.96 years, with a standard deviation of ±2.81
years. The prevalence of cervical cancer screening uptake in Jimma Zone among rural health
extension workers was 33.8% (95%CI: 28.2-39.9). Health extension workers aged 40–49 years
(AOR = 4.81; 95% CI: 1.01–12.8), work experience (AOR = 8.69; 95% CI: 1.66–15.6), received
formal training (AOR = 2.71; 95% CI: 1.14–6.46), and having good knowledge (AOR = 2.47;
95% CI: 1.05–5.83) were identified as factors associated with cervical cancer screening uptake
among rural health extension workers in the Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia.
Conclusion: The overall cervical cancer screening uptake rate among rural health extension
workers was low compared to national and global strategy for cervical cancer elimination.
Screening is more common among rural health extension workers whose age is 40-49, those with
longer work experience, received formal training and having good knowledge. To improve
uptake, we recommend rural health extension worker focused training and awareness creation
Genomic diversity and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Shigella species in under-five children with acute diarrhea in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
No full textBackground: Shigella species exhibit considerable genetic diversity, reflecting distinct
genomic traits and epidemiological trends. In Ethiopia, infections caused by Shigella
species, along with rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR), pose a major public health
threat, especially among children under five. To our knowledge, there are few studies on
the genetic diversity and antimicrobial susceptibility of Shigella species in this vulnerable
age group. Figuring this out could help treat cases better and control outbreaks more
effectively.
Objective: This study aimed to characterize Shigella species' genomic diversity and AMR
profiles in under five children with acute diarrhea in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods: Between June 2021 and April 2022, we conducted a cross-sectional study.
Freshly passed stool specimens were collected and transported in Cary Blair media to the
Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) laboratory for Shigella isolation and identification
using standard bacteriological methods. Serogrouping was performed using polyvalent
antisera, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was conducted using the disk
diffusion method. Additionally, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to
assess the prevalence and AMR patterns of Shigella species in East Africa. Molecular
characterization was performed using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis.
Sequencing was conducted using the Illumina NextSeq550 (Illumina, Singapore) with a
300-cycle kit, generating paired-end reads of 149bp. Raw reads were quality-filtered and
trimmed to a minimum length of 50 bp before being taxonomically classified using
MiniKraken version 1. The whole genome data were aligned with Antibiotic Resistance
Gene (ARG) sequences from the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD)
using the Resistance Gene Identifier (RGI). Plasmid analysis was performed using the
Mykrobe PlasmidFinder tool. Additionally, AMR and virulence genes were screened using
the Centre for Genomic Epidemiology (CGE) web-based platform. Data were analyzed
using descriptive statistical tools. The association of independent and dependent variables
was evaluated with logistic regression. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically
significant.
Results: Among the 534 stool-cultured specimens in the prospective study, 47 (8.8%) were
positive for Shigella species. Of these, 31 were serologically identified as S. sonnei and 16
as S. flexneri. Of 37 isolates analyzed by WGS, all 28 S. sonnei strains identified
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serologically were confirmed as S. sonnei. However, all nine isolates initially identified as
S. flexneri were found to be E. coli O37:H10. The phylogenetic tree showed that both S.
sonnei and E. coli O37:H10 isolates had multiple evolutionary origins, suggesting that their
phenotypic features evolved convergently. Plasmids Col156 and Col (BS512) were
identified in all S. sonnei isolates, while IncFII and Col (MG828) plasmids were found only
in one isolate. In contrast to S. sonnei, the most common plasmid type in E. coli O37:H10
isolates was IncFII, and virulence genes such as gad were frequently detected.
Discrepancies were observed between phenotypic and genotypic AMR results. The
systematic review estimated the pooled prevalence of Shigella species in East Africa was
6.2%. Despite variations in study sites and periods, the meta-analysis study further revealed
an increased rate of resistance of Shigella species to tetracycline, ampicillin, amoxicillin,
chloramphenicol, and co-trimoxazole. In the prospective study, AST showed that 100, 93.6,
80.9, 72.3, and 57.5% were sensitive to norfloxacin, nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin,
gentamicin, and cefoxitin, respectively. However, 100% of the isolates were resistant to
amoxicillin. All isolates were resistant to three or more antimicrobials that exhibited
multidrug resistance (MDR). None of the risk factors assessed showed a statistically
significant association with Shigella infection. All S. sonnei isolates in our study contained
genes encoding blaEC-8 and blaZEG-1. About 60.7% of the isolates were phenotypically
sensitive to cefoxitin among the blaEC-8 genes detected in the genotyping analysis,
whereas all isolates were completely resistant to amoxicillin phenotypically. The study also
identified genes that conferred resistance to trimethoprim (dfrA1). Extended-spectrum beta
lactamase (ESBL) blaEC-15 for cephalosporins, blaMIX-2, and blaMIX-6 for penicillins
were detected in E. coli O37:H10. All E. coli O37:H10 isolates possessed a gene associated
with trimethoprim resistance, and eight E. coli O37:H10 isolates exhibited consistent
results for trimethoprim when comparing phenotype and genotype. The dominant AMR
mechanism among the identified ARGs was antibiotic efflux, followed by antibiotic target
alteration.
Conclusion: There was no significant heterogeneity among East African studies, the
majority of which were conducted in Ethiopia. Both the systematic review and the
prospective phenotypic study revealed alarmingly increased levels of AMR to commonly
administered antibiotics. The genotyping study revealed that the most prevalent resistant
genes were associated with beta-lactam and trimethoprim drugs. The IncFII plasmid, which
primarily encodes ESBL, was more frequently identified in E. coli O37:H10 isolates than
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in S. sonnei. The study also highlighted a significant discrepancy between phenotypic and
genotypic drug resistance, as well as variations in serotypes and phylogenetic relationships
with global isolates.
Recommendation: The study highlighted significant discrepancies between phenotypic
and genotypic results. Molecular studies integrating WGS for AMR determination and
strain identification into active surveillance could enhance monitoring of AMR spread
and detection of potential emerging variations. Therefore, public health and clinical
laboratories in Ethiopia should implement WGS to address inconsistencies in
conventional analyses, enhance treatment efficacy, and inform targeted interventions
Bionomics, Insecticide Susceptibility and Characterization of Mid-Gut Micro biota In Anopheles Mosquitoes in Ethiopia
No full textBackground: This PhD dissertation explores the complex ecology of malaria vectors in Ethiopia,
where malaria transmission patterns remain spatially heterogeneous and shaped by the interplay of
diverse Anopheles mosquito species with distinct ecological, behavioural, and physiological
characteristics, and human interventions.Vector control efforts have been challenged by gaps in
knowledge regarding species composition, seasonal dynamics, insecticide resistance, infection
rates, and microbiota profiles.
Objective: This dissertation aimed to characterize the bionomics, insecticide susceptibility,
infection rates, blood meal sources, and midgut microbiota diversity of key Anopheles species
vectors across multiple eco-epidemiological settings in Ethiopia.
Methods: Data for the overall PhD research were collected between June 2018 and February 2023
across three sites: Lare in Nuwer Zone (Gambella), Asendabo in Jimma Zone (Oromia), and Batu in
East Shewa Zone (Oromia). Adult Anopheles mosquitoes were sampled using CDC light traps,
human landing catches, and pyrethrum spray catches, while larvae were sampled by dipping from
breeding sites. Species identification was performed via morphological keys and species-specific
PCR. Plasmodium infection rates were assessed using sporozoite infection rates (SRs),
circumsporozoite proteins (CSP-ELISA) and TaqMan qPCR. Insecticide susceptibility was
determined using WHO standard bioassays and molecular screening for resistance markers (kdr
L1014F/S, ace-1 N485I, CYP6P9a). Midgut microbiota were isolated from aseptically dissected
mosquitoes and characterized using culture-based techniques and biochemical assays.
Results: A total of over 14,800 Anopheles mosquitoes, representing four species: An. arabiensis,
An. pharoensis, An. coustani, and An. funestus were collected. Anopheles coustani was the most
abundant species, accounting for more than 40% of the total collection and 42% in Lare. Anopheles
pharoensis was the next most common, while An. arabiensis was dominant species in Asendabo
and Batu. Seasonal abundance peaked between June and November, except for An. funestus, which
was more prevalent during post malaria peak months in the dry season. All An.gambiae s.l. were
confirmed as An. arabiensis via PCR while more than 90% An. funestus s.l. from Lare were all
confirmed as An. funestus s.s. Despite the absence of insecticide resistance mutations (CYP6P9a,
kdr L1014F/S, ace-1 N485I) in An. funestus, phenotypic resistance to pyrethroids and
organochlorines was widespread in An. arabiensis, An. pharoensis, and An. coustani. Plasmodium
infected mosquitoes were identified across multiple species including, An. funestus, An. arabiensis,
An. coustani, and An. pharoensis, with An. funestus showing the highest entomological inoculation
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rate (10.52 bites/person/month), positive for both Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax. Blood meal
analysis confirmed zoophilic tendencies and mixed feeding behaviour with spatio-temporal and
species-specific variation. Midgut microbiota analyses revealed 659 bacterial and five fungal
isolates from 129 mosquitoes across four species. Eleven bacterial genera were identified with
Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, Proteus, and Bacillus dominating. Microbial composition and
colonization intensity varied by species, site, life stage, and insecticide exposure status.
Remarkably, An. arabiensis survivors of DDT and permethrin exposure (from Batu) harbored
higher microbial loads compared to susceptible counterparts, possibly suggesting potential
microbiota-mediated resistance mechanisms.
Conclusions:
This work highlights complex spatiotemporal patterns in Anopheles species composition,
insecticide resistance, infection rates, host choices, and midgut microbiota diversity across regions
in Ethiopia. The dry-season persistence and infection potential of An. funestus, along with the
widespread distribution and insecticide resistance observed in secondary and suspected vectors like
An. pharoensis and An. coustani in addition to the primary vector underscore the urgent need for
expanded and targeted vector surveillance. Moreover, the association between microbiota diversity
and insecticide resistance may offer new insights into vector competence and suggest potential for
microbiome-targeted interventions to complement existing malaria control strategies. Sustained
integrative entomological and microbiological monitoring is crucial for adaptive and effective
vector control in Ethiopia
Regulatory Compliance and Quality of Fixed-Dose Combination Amoxicillin–Clavulanic Acid Oral Suspensions:Evedence From Drug Retail Outlets In Sheger City, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
No full textBackground: Fixed-dose combination amoxicillin-clavulanic acid oral suspensions are
commonly used in pediatric care but are susceptible to degradation under inadequate storage
conditions, especially in low-resource settings including Ethiopia.
Objective: To assess regulatory compliance and the quality of Fixed-Dose Combination
Amoxicillin–Clavulanic Acid Oral Suspensions:Evedences from Drug Retail Outlets of Sheger
City, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study (May–July 2025) involving 200 drug retail outlets assessed
product quality using 30 bottles from three brands collected via convenience sampling. Data
were obtained through questionnaires, checklists, and laboratory testing, with counterfeit
detection using the WHO visual inspection tool and quality evaluation per USP 40 standards.
Analysis using SPSS v25 included descriptive statistics and logistic regression set at P < 0.05.
Results: The study found that only 57% of drug retail outlets complied with national regulatory
standards for pharmaceutical storage. While dispenser knowledge (88.9%) and attitudes (63%)
toward proper storage were generally positive, practice gaps were evident. The multiple logistic
regression indicates pharmacies with dispensers practicing over five years of experience were
more than twice as likely to be compliant (AOR = 2.30, P = 0.028). Similarly, being a pharmacy
owner (AOR = 1.86, p = 0.031) and having training in good storage practices (AOR = 1.72, p =
0.044) increased the odds of compliance. The licensed pharmacy outlets having a self-contained
storage area and using a thermometer for monitoring (P<0.05) were also significantly linked to
higher compliance levels. All samples met the WHO visual inspection and USP assay quality
standards (amoxicillin 90–120%, clavulanic acid 90–125%). Samples from drug retail outlets
that complied with national regulatory standards for pharmaceutical storage exhibited potency
that is more consistent across brands.
Conclusion: Despite the fact that every tested sample passed quality control testing, retail
establishments continue to store pharmaceuticals in ways that do not comply with regulations,
putting their long-term stability and effectiveness at risk. The study suggests that strengthened
regulatory enforcement, improved storage infrastructure, and continuous dispenser training are
essential to safeguard medicine quality and public health
Sexual and reproductive health literacy Level and Associated Factors Among Undergraduate Female Students at Jimma University, Southwest Ethiopia, 2025
No full textSexual and reproductive health literacy refers to the ability to understand and apply knowledge
related to sexual and reproductive health. Limited SRH in young adult hood also increases the
risk of unsafe abortion, cesarean sections, social isolation, reduced likelihood of completing
higher education, diminished economic stability, and services, absenteeism from school, and
vulnerability to HIV/AIDS and other Moreover, there has been a lack of research on sexual and
reproductive health literacy among university students in the local area populations.
Objective: To assess sexual and reproductive health literacy levels and associated factors
among undergraduate female students at Jimma University in 2025.
Method: The study was conducted from March 3 to April 5, 2025, using a facility-based
quantitative cross-sectional design among sampled adolescent girls at Jimma University. A
total of 481 students were recruited through simple random sampling by using their email
addresses of students obtained from the department. Sexual and reproductive health literacy
was measured using the Health Literacy Measure for Adolescents tool. Data were analyzed
using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify associated factors.
Variables with a p-value <0.25 in bivariable analysis were entered into multivariable logistic
regression. Model fitness was confirmed using the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test,
and statistical significance was declared at p <0.05.
RESULT: In this study, 467 female students responded to the questionnaires, resulting in a
response rate of 97%. The overall prevalence of limited SRH among female students was
43.47% CI (0.389,0.481)
preferred source of information about SRH (AOR =7.701(3.184, 18.625)), awareness of SRH
services available (AOR =3.846(2.011, 7.355)), and presence of health care provider in the
family (AOR=0.508(.307,.841)) were statistically significant factors
CONCLUSION: Less than half of the respondents had limited SRH literacy. factors like
academic department and family background influenced their knowledge levels. To improve
outcomes, policymakers should provide monitored health information, inclusive education, and
targeted outreach for those in non-health
Women’s decision-making autonomy on modern contraceptive use and associated factors among married women in Dado District, Jimma zone 2026.
No full textBackground: Modern contraceptive methods have provided women with the tools to plan their families
follow education and employment opportunities and contribute more fully to society. Women’s decision
making autonomy is the ability to make independent choices regarding her health, education, finance and
family life. Despite various family planning initiatives in Ethiopia, women’s in making decisions about
contraceptive use remains limited, particularly in rural areas. This study underscores the need for targeted
policies that promote women’s education, economic inclusion and awareness of right and assess the
prevalence and Determinants of women’s decision-making autonomy regarding the use of modern
contraceptive methods and identify factors influencing their autonomy among married women
Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence and Determinants of women’s decision-making
autonomy regarding the use of modern contraceptive methods and identify factors influencing their
autonomy among married women in Dedo District, Jimma, south-west Ethiopia.
Method: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 317 women aged 15-49 years
using a structured interview-administered questionnaires. Simple random sampling technique was used to
select kebels and study participants. Data was collected by using kobo toolbox and entered into SPSS for
analysis. Both bi-variate and multi-variable logistic regression analysis were used to identify factors
associated with women’s decision making autonomy with statistical significance set at p<0.05
Results: The study showed that nearly three forth of women lacked autonomy in decision-making
regarding modern contraceptive use. Factors associated with high autonomy in decision making regarding
modern contraceptive use were, Level of education (AOR = 2.06, 95% CI: 1.005–5.75, p = 0.012),
Discuss with spouse on contraceptive methods ((AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: 2.035–6.417, p = 0.001),) and
Knowledge of women about contraceptive methods (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.23–4.23, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Women’s decision-making autonomy was significantly associated with educational
attainment, knowledge of modern contraceptive methods and open spousal communication, to reduce this
factors recommending to ministry of health, local administrative and local NGO to Enhancing women’s
education, promoting open communication between Spouses and increasing women’s awareness that
Improving Autonom
Depressive Disorder and Associated Factors among Youths Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy at Public Health Facilities in Jimma City
No full textBackground: Depressive Disorder is a common mental health problem and growing public
health concern in HIV-positive people. This co-occurrence can result in unfavourable health
effects, poor levels of adherence to antiretroviral therapy and further load on physical health.
Youth with depressive disorders may struggle to manage their health due to reduced motivation
and energy. This, in turn, can lead to an increased rate of hospitalization, which contributes to the
economic burden and more medical costs.
Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of depressive disorder and
associated factors among antiretroviral therapy user youths in Jimma City public health facility
ART clinics, southwest Oromia, Ethiopia, 2025
Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2025 to June
2025. Interviewer -administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The Sample size was
calculated using a single population proportion formula and data was collected from 379 on
antiretroviral therapy user youths out of 386 sample size with response rate of 98.2% all youths
attending ART follow-up visits until the required sample size was reached, using the Kobo
Toolbox. Data were cleaned, checked, coded, and exported into SPSS version 27 for analysis.
Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association
between depressive disorder prevalence and the independent variables. Variables with P value <
0.25 were selected as candidate variables for multi-variable logistic regression. The outputs from
the regression analysis were reported at P-Value < 0.05 using an Adjusted Odds Ratio with their
95% CI to show significant association without come variable.
Results: 379 study participants were involved, with a response rate of 98.2%,the prevalence of
depressive disorder among antiretroviral therapy user youths attending ART clinics in Jimma
City public health facilities was 52% (95%CI: 47.6-57.9). Those aged 20–24(AOR=1.83, 95%
CI: 1.16–2.87), being female (AOR=1.61, 95% CI: 1.02–2.55), HIV medication improper use
(AOR=4.73, 95% CI: 2.47–9.03), low social support (AOR=1.66, 95% CI: 1.04–2.64), and
youths who experienced perceived stigma (AOR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.02–2.49) were significantly
associated with depressive disorder.
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Conclusion: Nearly half of HIV-positive youth attending ART clinics were found to have
depressive disorder 197(52%). The study identified that older age (20–24 years), female sex,
poor adherence to ART medications, low social support, and perceived HIV-related stigma were
significantly associated with increased odds of depressive disorde
Assessment of Vaccine Distribution Management Practice at Health Facilities in Burji Zone Southern Ethiopia Region, Ethiopia: Mixed Methods Study
No full textBackground: Around 25% of vaccines reach their destination in a degraded state due to
failure within the cold chains, and more broadly, about 20% of temperature-sensitive
pharmaceutical products are damaged due to broken cold chains. Due to poor management of
the vaccine cold chain, 29% of all child deaths worldwide occur in developing countries. The
Ethiopian national EVM survey report showed that health facilities achieved only 59% in
vaccine distribution, below the 80% target.
Objective: To assess vaccine distribution management practices at health facilities in Burji
Zone, Southern Ethiopia Region.
Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional mixed study design was conducted from January11
to February25, 2025. From a total of 32 health facilities serving the current study area, all 16
Health facilities that managed vaccine inventories within their storage facilities and met the
inclusion criteria were selected, and all 43 vaccine cold chain handlers working in the eligible
Health facilities were included using a census method. Vaccine distribution practices were
measured based on three components: vaccine transportation, vaccine receiving, and
inventory management practices at health facilities. Data were collected using a self
administered structured questionnaire, interviews, document review, and an observational
checklist. Quantitative data were entered and analyzed using the Statistical Package for
Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The Fisher‘s exact test was conducted to determine the
association at a p-value <0.05 as a significant level. For the qualitative study, 9 key
informants were purposively selected from the Ethiopian pharmaceutical supply service Arba
Mich hub and Burji Zone health facilities to supplementing the quantitative finding. Data
were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Finally, triangulation of the qualitative
findings with quantitative data was carried out.
Results: In this study, 42 vaccine cold chain handlers from 16 selected health facilities were
included, with a response rate of 97.7%. Of 16 health facilities assessed, half 8(50%) of them
demonstrated good vaccine transportation practice. Regarding vaccine receiving practices,
5(31%) of the health facilities had good vaccine receiving practices. In addition to that, more
than half 9(56%) of healthcare facilities have experienced good vaccine inventory
management practices. Overall, the study indicated that 44% of the health facilities had good
vaccine distribution management practices. Vaccine cold chain handlers‘ gender (p=0.021),
profession (p=0.021), training (p=0.005), supportive supervision (p=0.030), and knowledge
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of vaccine handlers (p=0.029) were significantly associated with vaccine distribution
practices. Limited cold chain capacity, lack of maintenance supplies and transportation, high
turnover, poor data quality, and absence of digital inventory systems were the major
challenges contributing to poor vaccine distribution practices.
Conclusion: The study revealed that vaccine distribution practices are poor at lower levels of
the
health facilities. Ensuring effective vaccine distribution through continuous
professional training, regular supervision, and provision of cold chain equipment, with
coordinated efforts from Regional health bureau, Ethiopian pharmaceutical supply service,
Zonal health department, and District health office, may help improve vaccine distribution
practices
Assessment of HIV/AIDS Commodities Supply Chain Management Performance in Achieving 95-95-95 Targets and Challenges in Public Health Care Facilities of Sheger City, Oromia, Ethiopia.
No full textBackground: Healthcare facilities need an extensive range of HIV/AIDS commodities for
the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS which are critical for achieving the 95
95-95 targets; however the SCM of HIV/AIDS commodities were not adequately studied.
Existing studies shows considerable variation in performance. Therefore, this study was
aimed to assess HIV/AIDS commodities supply chain management performance in achieving
95-95-95 targets and challenges in public health facilities of Sheger city, Oromia, Ethiopia.
Methods: Facilities based mixed quantitative and qualitative cross sectional concurrent study
design was employed in 14 public healthcare facilities from 2, January 2025 to 12, February
2025. All ART providing public healthcare facilities of Sheger City were included. Semi
structured questionnaires and observation checklists based on logistic indicators assessment
tools (LIATs) were used to collect data for HIV/AIDS commodities SCM. Key informant
interviews were conducted face-to-face with selected stakeholders. Quantitative data were
entered into Epi-Data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 21 to analyze the result and
one sample t-test statistic was employed to compare the study result to the national standard.
Qualitative data collected from 17 key informants were analysed thematically using Excel.
Results: A total of 83 respondents were participated in the study with response rate of 98.8%.
Bin card availability averaged 90.1% and utilization 81.7% significantly below the national
standard of 100% (p=0.004), with proper documentation seen in 81.1% of facilities. Order fill
rates for HIV/AIDS commodities were 80.5% (p=0.002) and HIV test kits fill rates 74.28%
(p = 0.003). The average re-supply lead time was 21 days, exceeding the 15-day standard
(p=0.000), which increases the risk of re-supply delays. Although overall commodity
availability was 90.26%, statistically comparable to the 90% benchmark (p=0.93), 92.9% of
facilities reported at least one stockout in the past six months (p=0.001), particularly of test
kits and Dolutegravir 50mg due to national level shortages. Wastage was low at 1.11%,
within the acceptable threshold (p = 0.001) and 85.7% of facilities met storage standards,
with overall compliance of 84.7% (p = 0.001). Adaption of Dagu 2.0 (78.6%) and combined
electronic/manual APTS (64.3%). Qualitative finding shows that HIV/AIDS commodities
SCM were challenged by frequent and widespread stock out and poor order resupply.
Conclusion: Despite improvements in storage and inventory systems, gaps persist in, order
fill rates and long viral load test might hinder progress toward 95-95-95 targets. Stakeholders
must strengthen their efforts to improve fill rates and ensure availability of HIV commodities
Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO/CuO Nanocomposites Decorated with Carbon Dots for Photocatalytic Degradation of MB and Antibacterial Applications
No full textZinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are gaining significant attention due to their catalytic and
antibacterial properties. However, their effectiveness in pure form is limited by several factors,
including a large energy bandgap, high exciton binding energy, electron-hole recombination,
poor absorption of visible light, and insufficient photocatalytic activity. To address these
challenges, we propose the incorporation of transition metal oxides, such as copper (II) oxide
(CuO), along with trace amounts of carbon nanomaterials. This study focuses on enhancing the
photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye by adding only 9% CuO nanoparticles
and 2% carbon dots (C-dots) to the ZnO-NPs. The inclusion of these materials reduced the
energy bandgap of ZnO-NPs from 3.08 eV to 2.51 eV, leading to a significant improvement in
their photocatalytic activity. Our results indicated that nearly complete degradation of MB
(98.7%) was achieved within 60 min of visible light irradiation when 70 mg of the C-dot
decorated ZnO/CuO composite was used. This performance is considerably better than that of
the pure ZnO-NPs, which only degraded 76.16% of the MB dye after the same duration of light
exposure. Additionally, the incorporation of CuO and C-dots significantly enhanced the
antibacterial activity of ZnO-NPs against selected gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
The zones of inhibition for B.Seraus, E.coli, S.typhi and S.ureus were 8±0.25, 12±0.20, 13±0.10,
and 10±0.30 mm, respectively, evaluated against ZnO-NPs. Also the zones of inhibition for
B.Seraus, E.coli, S.typhi and S.ureus were 14±0.20, 17±0.20, 18±0.15, 16±0.35mm, respectively,
evaluated against ZnO/CuO@C-dot-NCs. The substantial improvement in both photocatalytic
and antibacterial effectiveness can be attributed to enhanced surface charge and stability. To
our knowledge, this represents the most significant improvement in photocatalytic and
antibacterial efficacy achieved by adding small amounts of C-dot material to ZnO/CuO
nanocomposites