Malawi (2008): Maternal and Child Health TraC Study Evaluating Water Treatment and Hygiene for the Prevention of Diarrhea and Cholera among Caregivers of Children under Five. Second Round.

Abstract

Background & Research Objectives In late 2005 and mid 2008, Population Services International (PSI/Malawi) conducted a household survey designed to monitor trends in the use of WaterGuard (point-of-use water treatment) to prevent diarrhea and cholera among caregivers of under five children in Malawi. The 2008 survey was a follow-up to the survey conducted in late 2005. Description of Intervention PSI/Malawi is engaged in the social marketing of a range of health products that directly ad dress a significant health concern faced by Malawians, diarrheal disease faced. These products consist of Thanzi ORS and WaterGuard (point-of-use water treatment). PSI/Malawi has also launched WaterGuard Powder. The products are distributed via a range of traditional and non-traditional outlets, primarily employing Malawi'€™s commercial distribution network and the Ministry of Health network of health facilities. Methodology This study design was based on a stratified multi-stage cluster sampling approach. The total sample size for the study (4181) was divided by place of residence (urban and rural) in a ratio of 1 to 4, proportionally to size1 . Results are presented in standard PSI Dashboard form. Main Findings We found that just over 11% of caregivers use WaterGuard in 2008. These people are more likely to be aware of the availability and brand attributes of WaterGuard compared to those who do not treat their water. They also more likely to perceive high social norms and display high selfefficay for water treatment than those who do not treat their water. People who do not use WaterGuard are more likely to say that they know someone who has died