Authors: Dianelba Valdez, Hunter Keys, Keyla Ureña, Domingo Cabral, Francisco Camilo, Eulalia C. Ogando, Luz Mercedes, Gregory S. Noland, Stephen B. Blount, James V. Lavery, Luccene Desir, Jose Puello
Community engagement is vital for public health efforts but often under-studied in disease elimination programs. This report highlights lessons from a malaria outbreak response in Los Tres Brazos, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from 2015-2016. During this period, 233 malaria cases were reported, a significant increase from the previous two years. Initially, the national malaria program used top-down approaches like surveillance, vector control, and community education. Although cases briefly decreased in mid-2015, they surged again by the end of the year. The program then involved trained community members in door-to-door fever screening, testing, and treatment. This community-based approach led to a significant reduction in malaria cases in 2016 and helped control a minor transmission episode in 2017. Qualitative research found that community members’ cooperation was driven by a desire to help their community and trust among health workers, neighbors, and program staff. This experience shows that community-led efforts and adaptability are crucial for controlling malaria and moving towards elimination.
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Resource Topic: Malaria
Resource Type: Qualitative
Year: 2020
Region:
Country: Dominican Republic
Publisher May Restrict Access: No
