Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) that Contribute to Low Vitamin A Coverage among Caregivers of Children 6-59 Months: Results from the KAP Survey done in Kenya.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The uptake of VAS for children 6-59 months in Kenya is low with only 30% receiving the recommended two doses of VAS yearly. The KAP survey was done to determine socio-cultural enablers and barriers of coverage and uptake of two dose VAS and thus inform the design of responsive behavior change and communication (BCC) strategies. Methods: KAP involved 3842 caregiver interviews,48 In-depth Interviews (IDIs),69 key informant interviews (KIIs) and 48 focus group discussions (FGDs) in 12 counties. Results: The KAP identified facility health workers (FHWs), community health workers (CHWs), and Early childhood and development centers (ECD) teachers as the key influencers to VAS uptake and coverage. Barriers to uptake and coverage include 1) Restrictive policy that only allows trained health workers to deliver VAS 2) Low knowledge on correct and benefits of VAS 3) Inadequate reporting tools and poor recording and reporting 4) Low demand/uptake of VAS by caregivers post immunization 5) Frequent stock-outs especially for 100,000 IUs capsules. Enablers to uptake and coverage include 1) Integration of VAS into other child survival services2)Delivery of VAS through ECD centers3) Consistent stocks availability. Conclusions: The KAP results will be used to identify key barriers for the target population and their potential for influencing VAS uptake and coverage. The KAP results will be used to inform the VAS strategy and also the development of a BCC strategy that responds to the socio-cultural beliefs and roles of the targeted population thereby creating an enabling environment for VAS uptake and coverage among children 6-59 months.