Evaluation Of Early Infant Diagnosis Surveillance System In Kenya

Abstract

Kenya is one of the 22 priority countries focused for lessening of mother-to-Child transmission (mtCt) of Human immunodeficiency virus. The worldwide super-fast-track framework propelled in 2016 points at ending new HIV infections among children (start free) and keeping their mothers alive, adolescents (stay free) and end pediatric and adolescent aids (aidsfree) by 2020. Identifying infants infected early and starting them on Anti-retroviral therapy as soon as possible after diagnosis is fundamental to moderate the movement from HIV infection to AIDS and to prolong the life of the patient. The objective of the assessment was to describe the attributes and process of operation of HIV/AIDS early infant diagnosis surveillance system in Kenya, determine if the set objectives for establishing the HIV/AIDS Early infant diagnosis surveillance system and to make appropriate recommendations for improving the surveillance system in Kenya. On methodology, surveillance evaluation involved qualitative method and review of January-June 2018 early infant surveillance data. A new early infant diagnosis laboratory requisition form was developed after identification comprehensive identification of the gaps. The assesment process was according Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on public health surveillance assesment. Key informant (KII) sessions were conducted with health care workers to assess the operation, functionality and key attributes of the surveillance system. Revised early infant diagnosis laboratory request form, piloted the new tool, revision of the new tool after incorporating feed back from the pilot, rolled out of the new tool and updated EID and DHIS2 websites to be in line with the new tool. Data from the EID website before and after the revision of the EID LRF showed an improvement on data quality. Focused mentorship and continuous training on the EID surveillance system is important.