SAVE 1850 PREGNANT MOTHERS AND CHILDREN BELOW 5 YEARS OF AGE FROM MALARIA IN UGANDA

SUMMARY:

Malaria is a significant health concern in Uganda, accounting for a substantial number of deaths and cases, with over 29% of the population at risk. There has been a high rate of infant mortality due to malaria caused by maternal anemia, Low birth weight, preterm delivery, fetal distress and increased risk of maternal mortality. Despite stakeholder engagement, Prevention and Control services to mothers and children is still low. Long lasting insecticide treated mosquito nets (LLINs) coverage is still low affecting pregnant mothers with low immunity. The project provides free long lasting insecticide treated mosquito nets, malaria testing and treatment to children less than 5 years of age and pregnant mothers.

CHALLENGES:

In Gulu district in Uganda, there is a high malaria transmission rate, characterized by stable perennial malaria transmission, likely due to favorable local relative humidity for mosquito survival. And 95% of the community members are subsistence farmers with women being the major contributors of agricultural production. Due to high malaria transmission rates, Mothers are highly affected leading to:

1. Reduced productivity because of recurring illness, reducing women's ability to work on farms, tend to crops, and manage livestock, ultimately affecting agricultural production.
2. Economic impact.
3. Health complications: Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to malaria, which can lead to complications like maternal anemia, low birth weight, preterm delivery and maternal mortality. The project will benefit mothers, children and the government of Uganda on malaria expenses.

SOLUTIONS:

1. The project will educate mothers on how to prevent malaria during antenatal days.
2. Will provide malaria tests to every mother and children below 5 years of age freely.
3. Will provide a long lasting insecticide treated net to every mother and children below 5 years of age.
4. Will provide mosquito sprays to every mother and children below 5 years of age incase LLINs are out of stock.
5. Will support staff to monitor usage of LLINs effectively in mothers' homes.

LONG-TERM IMPACT:

The project will contribute to:

1. Reduced morbidity and mortality.
2. Improved quality of life.
3. Economic benefits.
4. Increased school Attendance and performance among children.
5. Enhanced community Resilience.
6. Sustainable development.
7. Improved healthcare systems.
8. Reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance.
9. Increased investment and tourism.
10. Better health outcomes for vulnerable populations.