Antimalarial Use in Major Public Hospitals in Eldoret Town: Review of Use in Uasin Gishu and Huruma County Hospitals and MTRH

Abstract

Background; Rational use of antimalarials advocates for correct dosages calculation, intervals and completion. The World Health Organization Guidelines for the treatment of malaria provides evidence-based and up-to-date recommendations for countries on malaria diagnosis and treatment which help in the formulation of policies and strategies. The Guidelines cover the diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated and severe malaria caused by all types of malaria parasites.This includes treatment of malaria in special groups (young children, pregnant women, HIV /AIDS), in travellers (from non-malaria endemic regions) and in epidemics and complex emergency situations. However there is paucity of information on rational use of antimalarials in Kenya. Methods; A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted at Uasin Gishu and Huruma county hospitals and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH). All antimalarial prescriptions and treatment sheets in the month of April were evaluated. Results: Laboratory and clinical method of diagnosis accounted for 63% and 37% respectively of all the cases. Blood smear method represented 71% while Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) represented 29%. Main antimalarials prescribed were Artemether/Lumefantrine (60.2%) and Artesunate injection (29.3%). Antimalarial agents use among the special groups was in line with the current national guidelines. Conclusion: The national guidelines on malaria treatment and management are not being fully followed in the major Uasin Gishu county hospitals and MTRH.