Malaria in Kenya

Mosquito Net Distribution Project 07/08

Malaria is certainly the biggest single health problem in N.E. Kenya, affecting mainly pregnant women and children under five. It is killing over 3,000 children every day in Africa alone, even more than HIV/AIDS. AAF trustee Rosie Crane, sister Lizzie Crane and fellow medical student Stephanie Wilmore have organised a mosquito net distribution project which may help to reduce these numbers in the area where AAF works.

Supported by AMREF , and with funding from World Swim Against Malaria , we are researching the effect of the mass use of treated mosquito nets throughout entire locations, and whether the killing cycle of the mosquito can be broken by this method. AAF has taken delivery of 3,700 long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets provided by WSAM. Now every resident in 23 adjoining villages within the Kyuso District, that is 1,320 families, has been provided with a free net and instructed in its use.

During the week of distribution representatives from the 1,320 families enjoyed educational plays by the local Single Mothers’ Group, and songs and poems from the Sunday School children. AAF trustee Dr James Buckle will carry out follow-up visits to selected families in November. Further monitoring will be carried out by the two clinics at Gai and Katakani.

The results will then be analysed to find out what effect this has on the prevalence of malaria among the population. We hope to give more information about this project in future issues of AAFNEWS. A report and pictures has been published by The Lancet Student magazine which can be viewed online by visiting the following links

Report www.thelancetstudent.com/category/electives.