The Enterics for Global Health (EFGH) <i>Shigella</i> Surveillance Study in Malawi
Donnie Mategula, Maureen Ndalama, Clement Lefu, Jobiba Chinkhumba, Latif Ndeketa, Vitumbiko Munthali, Clifford Chitala, Thandizo Malemia, Gertrude Million, Ishmail Sam Mbutuka, Ranken Mhone, Ethel Makwenda, Mussa James, Cornelius Bwanali, Gift Kazembe, Abell Manundo, Evance Chauluka, Salama Chitalo, Ethel Alumando, Dalitso Longwe, Maggie Matandika, Paul Jonasi, Agra Thindwa, Deborah Phiri, Richard Wachepa, Flywell Kawonga, Victor Maiden, Mary Charles, Ida Kapindula, Desirée Witte, Ann Turner, Christina Bronowski, Kate S. Baker, Naor Bar‐Zeev, Melita A. Gordon, Queen Dube, Nigel A. Cunliffe, Khuzwayo C. Jere, Jennifer Cornick
Abstract
Abstract Background Malawi is among 7 countries participating in the Enterics for Global Health (EFGH) Shigella surveillance study, which aims to determine the incidence of medically attended diarrhea attributed to Shigella, a leading bacterial cause of diarrhea in children in low-resource settings. Methods We describe the EFGH study site in the densely populated informal settlement of Ndirande Township, Blantyre, Malawi. We explore the site’s geographical location, demographic characteristics, and the healthcare-seeking behavior of its population, particularly for childhood diarrhea. We also describe the management of childhood diarrhea at the health facility, and the associated challenges to attaining optimum adherence to local and national guidelines at the site. Conclusions Our overarching aim is to improve global health through understanding and mitigating the impact of diarrhea attributed to Shigella.