Rowe Family Intern: Julius Leseeto
"Factors Influencing the Prevalence of Diarrheal Diseases Among Children Below Five Years of Age and a Test of Water Filtration as a Possible Intervention Measure: a Case of Wamba/Waso Divisions-Samburu District."
Diarrheal diseases represent an economic burden for developing countries. Beyond that, this public health issue decreases the quality of life for community members. In Samburu, more than one-third of the children treated in hospitals suffer from diarrhea. Expensive intravenous fluids and ineffective drugs are often administered to these patients. Although diarrheal diseases are usually more harmful to children than to adults, it can also affect a country's economy by reducing the health of its workforce.
With the supervision of Dr. Oguge, Julius developed a two pronged methodology to accomplish his research objectives. First, via questionnaires and observation checklists, Julius gathered data from 274 respondents (78% females and 22% male). From this information he was able to determine the key factors that influence the spread of diarrheal diseases in the Wamba location of Samburu district (including poor hygiene and contaminated water). As follow up to this data, Julius conducted research on possible intervention methods for the disease. He tested the efficacy of slow sand filters in reducing pathogenic microorganisms that can exacerbate diarrheal diseases. Julius' internship project forms the basis for other researchers as they attempt to formulate interventions to minimize the impact of diarrheal diseases.
Additionally, this internship allows Julius to gain partial fulfillment of a higher diploma in environmental health sciences (Food Science and Inspection). Beyond that, through this internship Julius has formed recommendations that engage stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health, Public Health Officers, Public Health Technicians and other affected community members such a mothers and traditional birth attendants.