Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Travellers Diarrhoea among short-term Travellers to Kenya

Authors: Daniel M Mutonga, Diba Dulacha, Margarita Mwai, Eric Munene, Walter Jaoko

Diarrhoea is one of the most common travel-related diseases (TRDs) with a global prevalence of 30–70%(Angelo et al., 2017; Heather, 2015). Traveller’s diarrhoea (TD) is defined as having 3 or more loose stools over 24 hours and associated with cramps, nausea, vomiting, and urgency (Steffen, 2017). In Kenya, previous studies reported an incidence of 49.3%(Angst & Steffen, 1997), and a total diarrhoea attack rate of 54.3%(Steffen et al., 2004). While the etiology of TD is mainly bacterial (Escherichia coli, Shigella, Campylobacter, Salmonella species) or parasitic (Giardia, Entamoeba)(Steffen et al., 2015); in as many as 53% of cases no pathogen is isolated (Jiang et al., 2002). Though preventable, TD leads to huge economic impact from associated healthcare costs and interference with travel plans (Diemert, 2006). To develop an effective educational program, it is paramount to understand the knowledge gap, community’s perceptions and willingness to change (Bennett, 1976). The aim of this study was therefore to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices on TD among short-term travellers to Kenya and identify the risk factors for self-reported TRDs.

Read full publication here.