ABSTRACT
Background : Nigeria is in the process of strengthening yellow fever case-based surveillance with the collection of serum samples among suspected case patients. Objective: A training conducted for surveillance officers in the local government areas (LGAs) of Osun State on yellow fever case-based surveillance was assessed to determine its immediate impact on the knowledge of participants. Methods: The training focused mainly on how to detect and report a suspected case of yellow fever to the national authorities and the reference laboratory. Training materials included the World Health Organization district guidelines for yellow fever surveillance. A pre and post test was used to evaluate the immediate impact of the training on knowledge among participants. Results: A total of 31 officers participated. The mean scores for pre and post tests were 7.1 (SD 3.6) and 20.7 (SD 3.4) out of a total of 30 points respectively. More than 80of participants rated the training as excellent in overall organization. Conclusion: All participants indicated that they were very confident to fully implement yellow fever surveillance in their LGAs
Subject(s)
Health Education , Population Surveillance , Professional Competence , Yellow FeverABSTRACT
Road traffic accidents are a major cause of death and disability worldwide. A number of mechanisms have been put in place to reduce the ensuing injuries; one of which is the use of seatbelts.This observational study was carried out to determine seatbelt use by vehicle occupants in University College Hospital (U.C.H). Trained research assistants observed drivers and other vehicleoccupants as they drove into the only fuel station within the hospital premises between 8.30a.m and 6.00 p.m. over a six-day period. Data on vehicle occupant characteristics; presenceand use of installed seat belts was documented using a modified version of the FIA foundation sample seatbelt wearing observation form. A total of 570 occupants in 402 vehicles were observed. There were 402 drivers and 117 and 50 front and rear seat occupants respectively. The only child observed was unrestrained and seated on an adults lap in the front. Seat belt use by the drivers; front and rear seat passengers were 76 (18.9); 16 (13.7) and 2 (4) respectively. A higher proportion 29 (29.9) of all female drivers compared with male drivers 47 (15.4) were restrained (X2 = 9.152; p = 0.02). Overall seat belt use observed was 16.5and driver use was only 18.9in spite of the existence of a law mandating use of seatbelt by drivers. Better enforcement of the current law is necessary and it should be extended to coverother vehicle occupants. The hospital environment presents a good opportunity to educate the public on the importance of seatbelt use utilizing various health education methods