Factors predisposing children aged 0-9 years to trachoma in Kirindon division, Trans Mara sub-county, Kenya

Abstract

Introduction: Trachoma is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, and it is more prevalent among young children, aged 9  years or below the age. Trachoma accounts for more than 1.4% of the world’s blindness, and more than half of African countries are estimated to be, or  to have been endemic. In Kenya, trachoma causes 16% of all blindness, and it is endemic in Trans Mara sub-county, which has a prevalence rate of 11%.  The study sought to address the socio-demographic, and environmental factors that predispose children aged 0-9 years to trachoma infection, in  Kirindon division, Trans Mara sub-county.

Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was carried out from March to April 2016. Cluster sampling and simple random sampling were done at household and at individual levels respectively. Structured questionnaires were administered to 158 households whereby a parent was interviewed and a child was observed.

Results: The study response rate was at 99.4%. Trachoma prevalence was at 27% (males = 34%; females = 19%, p = 0.04) from the 157households sampled. The independent factors for trachoma infection included latrine distance of more than 10 meters (OR =  0.11, p = 0.006); hand washing with soap (OR = 0.18, p=0.034); no face washing (OR = 15.86, p = 0.008); and fetching water   for less than 15 minutes (OR = 0.03, p=0.001).

Conclusion: Based on the poor personal and environmental hygiene, there is need to improve awareness of personal and environmental hygiene, not only that, but also providing health education on trachoma transmission and prevention strategies.