Visceral leishmaniasis is a severe systemic illness and early case management is
important for the avoidance complications and control of the disease. Improving health
workers’ knowledge on leishmaniasis is essential in improving the control programme. A
quantitative, retrospective study of patient records and descriptive, explorative study of
health care professionals’ knowledge on leishmaniasis were conducted. Data was
collected from patient records (n=299) using a structured audit tool and from health care
professionals (n=55) by means of a structured questionnaire.
The study findings highlight that the commonest clinical manifestations of visceral
leishmaniasis are fever and splenomegaly. Severe malnutrition and HIV co-infection
contribute to mortality. The findings indicate the need for training to improve health care
professionals’ awareness of visceral leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis disease surveillance
and support by the regional and district heath offices should be improvedHealth StudiesM.A. Public Health (MPH
