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Introduction initiation of breastfeeding is crucial in preventing newborn deaths and influences childhood nutrition. There was limited updated evidence regarding early initiation of breast-feeding practice and associated factors among the target population in the study area. Objective To assess initiation of breastfeeding practice and its associated factors among mothers who have infants less than six months of age in, North West Ethiopia, 2020. Methods The Community based quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 405 respondents in the stud area, then data would be entered and analyzed by using SPSS version 20 statistical packages. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression model analysis would be done. Odds ratio with 95% confidence was computed to determine the level of significance-value less than 0.05 considered as significant. Result This study showed that 94.7% of mothers in Debre Tabor Town practiced initiation of breastfeeding for their infants within the Less Than 12 Months of age. In multivariable analysis I n f a n t S e x, Female [AOR (95% CI) = 0.068 (0.002, 1.659), and Age of Mother 20–24 years [AOR (95% CI) = 2.33 (0.030, 17.12)], 25–29 years ((AOR = 8.20 [(95% CI: 12.212, 22.189]), and 30–34 years (AOR = 4.48 [95% CI: 0.463, 15.478], Assists (Attend) during delivery, Doctor (AOR = 0.644 [95% CI: 0.041, 10.138]) and Encourage BF by religious father (AOR = 6.669 [(95% CI: 4.27, 8.895]) were remained significantly associated with the outcome variable with at 95% CI and P- value of Conclusion and Recommendation: The prevalence of EIBF among mother-infant pairs of less than 12 months in debre tabor town, Northwest, Ethiopia, was found to be high as compared to national and global infant and young child feeding guidelines. However; it shows improvement as compared with some previous studies in Ethiopia. I n f a n t s e x, age of mother, assists during delivery, and encourage BF by religious father were factors associated with outcome in the stud area.

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury is a major global public health problem causing substantial mortality among the adult population. Hence, this study aimed to determine the predictors of mortality among adult traumatic brain injury patients in Felegehiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Northwest Ethiopia during 2020. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Felegehiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital using anonymized patient data obtained from chart review. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the patient characteristics. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve and log-rank test were used to test for differences in survival status among groups. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used at the 5% level of significance to determine the net effect of each explanatory variable on time to death. Results: In total, 338 patients aged ≥15 years and diagnosed with traumatic brain injury were included in the analysis. Among these patients, 103 (30.45%) died, giving a crude death rate of 25.53 per 1000 (95% CI: 21.05–30.98) person-days of follow-up. The overall median survival time was 44 days. The independent predictors of mortality after diagnosis of traumatic brain injury were admission Glasgow coma scale score ≤ 8 (adjusted hazard ratio (AHR): 4.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.73–13.62), bilateral non-reactive pupils at admission (AHR: 2.00 (95% CI: 1.10–3.71), elevated systolic blood pressure at admission (AHR: 0.31; 95% CI:0.11–0.86), elevated diastolic blood pressure at admission (AHR: 3.54; 95% CI: 1.33–9.43), and haematoma evacuation (AHR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.16–0.90). Discussion: The Survival status of traumatic brain injury patients was relatively low in this study. Glasgow coma scale score, bilateral non-reactive pupils, and elevated blood pressure were significant predictors of mortality. Further prospective follow-up studies that include residence and occupation are recommended.

Background Anemia is a major health problem in the worldwide. Because of health and socioeconomic problems, the prevalence of anemia is higher in developing countries. However, there was a limited finding in our study area. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among under-five age children in Shanan Gibe Hospital (SGH), Southwest Ethiopia. Methods Institution based cross sectional study was conducted at SGH, Ethiopia using consecutive convenient sampling technique during 1 January to 30 April, 2021. Data was collected by interviewing and capillary blood was taken from the fingertip for hemoglobin determination by using HaemoCue digital photometer. Additionally, stool sample was processed using wet mount and formal-ether concentration technique. Then after, the data were entered to Epidata version 3.1 and analysed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Factors associated with anaemia were assessed by bivariable and multivariable logistic regression model by considering P Results A total of 368 under five children were recruited to the study and the current prevalence of anemia was 48.9%. Of this anemia, 25.0% mild, 15.8% moderate and 8.2% were severely anemic. More ever, being rural resident (AOR = 6.11; 95% CI = 1.49–8.99, P = 0.002), family low income (AOR = 6.27, 95% CI = 1.35–11.43, P = 0.004), family size greater than five (AOR = 3.12; 95% CI =1.47–7.11, P = 0.002) and intestinal parasite infections such as Enteameoba histolytica (AOR =3.37; 95%CI = 2.16–11.31, P = 0.005), Hookworm (AOR = 6.09; 95%CI = 2.37–11.56, P = 0.001), and Trichuris trichuria (AOR = 2.79; 95%CI = 1.45–9.13, P = 0.002) (P Conclusion The current prevalence of anemia among under five age children is relatively high. On the other hand, the rural residence, large family size, low family income, infection with Enteameoba histolytica, hookworm and Trichuris trichuria were the identified factors associated with anemia among under five children. Therefore, there should be massive and routine deworming program in addition to imperative targeting anemia prevention, and nutritional supplementation to reduce the burden of anemia.

Background The incidence of eclampsia and its adverse maternal outcomes are very high in developing countries, particularly in Subsaharan African Countries. Identifying predictors for adverse maternal outcomes of eclampsia has paramount importance for helping health care providers to optimize their management outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the incidence of adverse maternal outcomes of eclampsia and its determinant factors. Methods A retrospective follow-up study design was applied. The data were extracted from patient charts using a structured, pre-tested, questionnaire. Descriptive analyses (frequencies, means, and standard deviation) were calculated, and bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to testing the association between independent variables and an outcome variable. After the data were coded and entered into Epi-Info Version 7.2 Software, the data were analyzed using STATA Version 14 Statistical Software. Results The magnitude of eclampsia was 5.36 per 1000 pregnancies (95% CI: 4.72, 6.10). The incidence of adverse maternal outcomes in eclamptic mothers was 53.7% (95% CI: 47.02, 60.24%). After adjusting for covariates maternal age 30–34, AOR 5.4 [95% CI = 1.02, 28.6]; age above 34, AOR 10.5 [95% CI = 1.3, 88.6]; gravidity 2–4, AOR 0.3 [95% CI = 0.1, 0.9]; 10 or more convulsions, AOR 4.6 [95% CI = 1.4, 14.9]; mild pyrexia, AOR 20.4 [95% CI = 3.7, 112.7]; moderate pyrexia, AOR 14.6 [95% CI = 1.7125.1]; platelet count below 50,000 cells/mm3, AOR 34.9 [95% CI = 3.6, 336.2]; platelet count between 50,000 and 99,000 cells/mm3, AOR 24.5 [95%CI = 5.4111.6]; and stillbirth of the current pregnancy, AOR 23.2 [95%CI = 2.1257.5] were strong predictors of adverse maternal outcomes in eclamptic mothers. Conclusions The incidence of adverse maternal outcomes of eclampsia was found to be high compared to similar studies discussed in this study. This study recommends early identification of patients with the risk factors (having many convulsions, high body temperature, low platelet count, patient age above 30 years, and 2–4 pregnancies), strengthening the referral system, and advocation of research on the area of adverse maternal outcomes and thereby encourage evidence-based medicine.

In areas where conventional sewer systems are not possible, innovative and low-cost methods are needed to get rid of pathogens in human urine. Treatment through acidification is a reliable method. In this study, the effect of fresh cabbage waste, potato peel, and teff flour water as substrate for lactic acid treatment of source-separated urine was investigated. Laboratory scale batch experiments were conducted to compare the substrates for pH 4 and high distribution of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), important for urine hygienization and urea stabilization. It was found that with the addition of 10% molasses as a sugar supplement, fermentation of fresh cabbage waste could establish the desired effect for lactic acid treatment of source-separated urine. The final pH in the urine mixed with lactic acid in the ratio of 1:1 and 1:2 (lactic acid: urine) was 4.12 and 4.26, respectively. While the final pH in the 1:4 and control reactors was 8.3 and 9.2, respectively. Escherichia coli count was below the detection limit in both 1:1 and 1:2 reactors after 5 days, whereas the number of E. coli in the samples collected from 1:4 and control reactors showed only slight reduction until the final day of the treatment process. Urea decomposition improved in 1:1 and 1:2 reactors, while it kept increasing in 1:4 and control reactors. The results revealed that food waste produced lactic acid enhances pathogen inactivation, urea stabilization and reduce odors in human urine. Key words: Lactic acid, odor control, pathogen inactivation, urea stabilization

Fisha GebreEyesus,1 Dagninet Mitku,2 Tadesse Tarekegn,1 Bogale Temere,1 Tamene Terefe,1 Amsalu Belete,2 Getasew Legas,2 Dejen Feleke,2 Moges Gelaw Taye,2 Nega Baye,2 Fitalew Admasu,2 Enyew Dagnew,2 Tewachew Liyeh,2 Melkamu Jimma,3 Ermias Chanie2 1Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia; 2DebreTabor University, DebreTabor, Ethiopia; 3Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Assosa University, Assosa, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Fisha GebreEyesus Email fishalebel@gmail.comBackground: Despite the increased availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART), its success depends on a high level of adherence to a life-long antiretroviral therapy. However, the extent and factors associated with adherence to ART are not well known, especially in the current study setup. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the level of adherence and associated factors among children on ART in Northwest, Ethiopia.Methods: A retrospective follow-up study was conducted on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children receiving ART at South Gondar public hospitals. Children receiving ART from January 1, 2015, to November 30, 2020, were included in the study. A computer-generated simple random sampling technique was employed. The data were entered into the EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed by STATA 14 statistical software. Bivariable logistic regression was fitted for each predictor variable. Moreover, those variables having a p-value ≤ 0.25 in bivariate analysis were fitted into a multivariable logistic regression model. P-value < 0.05 was used to declare significance.Results: A total of 363 HIV-infected children were involved in the study. From 363 HIV-infected children, the level of adherence to ART was found to be 78.2%, 95% CI (73.6, 82.2). TB co-infection [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.8, 95% CI (1.41, 10.1)], short duration on ART (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI (1.60, 7.20)), treatment failure (AOR = 10.2, 95% CI (3.95, 26.2)), and Zidovudine containing ART regimen (AOR = 3.5, 95% CI (1.1, 10.9)) were significant predictors of poor adherence.Conclusion: The current study showed that the level of adherence to ART was found to be low TB co-infection, short duration of ART, Zidovudine-containing ART regimen, and treatment failure were found to be significantly associated with poor adherence. Further studies on adherence rate and its determinants with multiple adherence measurements using prospective and multicenter studies were recommended.Keywords: adherence, ART, children, Ethiopia

Temesgen Getaneh,1 Ayenew Negesse,2,3 Getenet Dessie4 1Department of Midwifery, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia; 2Department of Human Nutrition and Food Sciences, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia; 3Center of Excellence in Human Nutrition, Food Science and Technology, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia; 4Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahr Dar University, Bahir Dar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Temesgen Getaneh Email temugetaneh@gmail.comBackground: Human immunodeficiency virus-infected children share the highest risk of death compared with all other age groups, and more than 90% of this viral infection of children was accounted for by transmission from mother to infant. This rate can be prevented and reduced with implementation of option B+ effectively. However, unacceptably high lost follow-up of mothers highly affected the effectiveness of this program. In Ethiopia, only 71% of mothers were adherent on their follow-up. So, this study was aimed to understand the reasons and experiences of lost follow-up of mothers under the prevention of mother to child transmission (option B+) program in North West Ethiopia.Methods: A qualitative study using a case study design was carried out using in-depth interviews among 20 mothers who had started the option B+ treatment protocol but discontinued their follow-up for more than two months, and 6 key informants and individuals who were engaged in management and control of human immunodeficiency virus at Woreda and Zonal level. An unstructured interview guide was used and translated into the local language. Study participants were selected using purposive sampling technique. After written consent was obtained, all study participants’ interviews were audio-recorded and analyzed using deductive content analysis.Results: A total of 26 mothers participated in this study. Accordingly, the most frequently raised reasons were lack of formal education which affects income level, lack of disclosure, lack of partner and family support, absence of male involvement and stigma-discrimination. But, unavailability of option B+ regimens in the nearest health facility or long distance from health facility, discordance and lack of experienced professionals in terms of counseling during initiation were also essential reasons.Conclusion: Educational and economic empowerment intervention (particularly for vulnerable households), promoting family support and male involvement, active counseling at initiation and during follow up and community level awareness improvement should be addressed to increase option B+ regimen adherence and retention.Keywords: HIV/AIDS, loss to follow up, Ethiopia

Gete Berihun,1 Zebader Walle,2 Daniel Teshome,3 Leykun Berhanu,1 Masresha Abebe,1 Ayechew Ademas,1 Adinew Gizeyatu,1 Awoke Keleb,1 Asmamaw Malede,1 Getaneh Atikilt,2 Abraham Teym,4 Metadel Adane1 1Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia; 2Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia; 3Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia; 4Department of Environmental Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Gete Berihun Email geteberihun@gmail.comIntroduction: COVID-19 has been a global public health problem since December 2019. Higher education institutions are risky areas for the transmission of COVID-19. But, still there is insufficient information on the prevention of the disease in this setting.Objective: To assess knowledge, attitude, and prevention practices towards COVID-19 among students of Ethiopian higher education institutions.Methods: Institutin -based cross-sectional study design was conducted from December 1 to 30, 2020 among randomly selected 407 undergraduate students from higher education institutions in Ethiopia. The outcome variables were knowledge, attitude, and practices towards COVID-19. Binary logistic regression models at 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to determine the factors affecting knowledge, attitude, and practices towards COVID-19. In multivariable analysis, variables with a p-value of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant and independently associated with outcome variables at 95% CI.Results: About 75.9% (95% CI: 72.2– 79.9%) of University students had a good knowledge, 62.4% (95% CI: 58.2– 67.1%) had a positive attitude, and 56.8% (95% CI: 52.6– 61.9%) had a good COVID-19 prevention practices. Students over the age of 30 (AOR=5.8; 95% CI: 1.5, 10.6), third-year students (AOR=3.1; 95% CI: 1.1, 8.9), and being health science students (AOR=4.4; 95% CI: 2.2, 8.9) were significantly associated with a good knowledge towards COVID-19. Urban residents (AOR=0.6; 95% CI: 0.3– 0.9), having an average family monthly income of $75USD (AOR=3.5; 95% CI: 1.8– 6.7), use of at least one type of social media (AOR=4.7; 95% CI: 1.7– 12.9), and having a positive attitude (AOR=2.2; 95% CI: 1.3– 3.5) were significantly associated with COVID-19 prevention practices.Conclusion: Despite three-fourths of the participants had a good knowledge, the attitude and prevention practices were low. Age, study year, College of study, presence of chronic illnesses, use of social media, family income, and residence were factors of knowledge, attitude, and prevention practices towards COVID-19. Hence, multiple information dissemination strategies using multiple media outlets should be implemented continuously.Keywords: COVID-19, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Higher education, Ethiopia

Ayechew Ademas,1 Metadel Adane,1 Awoke Keleb,1 Gete Berihun,1 Mistir Lingerew,1 Tadesse Sisay,1 Seada Hassen,1 Melaku Getachew,1 Getu Tesfaw,2 Dejen Getaneh Feleke,3 Elsabeth Addisu,4 Leykun Berhanu,1 Masresha Abebe,1 Adinew Gizeyatu,1 Habtemariam Abate,5 Atimen Derso1 1Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia; 2Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia; 3Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia; 4Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia; 5Department of Environmental Health Regulatory Directorate, Addis Ababa Food Medicines and Health Care Control Authority, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Ayechew Ademas Email aayechew19@gmail.comBackground: Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) is affecting many people. Chronic patients are highly vulnerable to contracting an infection. Most people recover within a week, but chronic patients can face severe illness or death. The increasing of cases, complications, and mortality demands compulsory preventive measures. Therefore, this study was designed to identify major preventive practices and associated factors.Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was employed from November to December 2020 among diabetics and HIV/AIDS follow-up clients in Dessie referral hospital. Data were entered into EpiData manager 4.6.0 version and exported to Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25.0 for data cleaning and analysis. Logistic regression analysis was done and an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with its 95% confidence interval (CI) was used for determining the strength of association.Results: Data were collected from 426 participants with a mean age of 46.54 years. The overall poor prevention practice rate of COVID-19 among diabetic and HIV/AIDS follow-up clients was 68.8% 95% CI (64.6– 72.8%). Factors significantly associated with poor prevention practice were femaleness (AOR; 1.61; 95% CI; 1.03– 2.51), illiterate [AOR; 2.59; 95% CI; 1.33– 5.09]), family size greater than four (AOR; 2.06; 95% CI; 1.32– 3.23), absence of health professional in the household (AOR; 1.79; 95% CI; 1.13– 2.84), not having health insurance (AOR; 1.85; 95% CI; 1.18– 2.89) and urban residence (AOR; 0.38; 95% CI; 0.18– 0.79).Conclusion: The overall proportion of prevention practice towards COVID-19 among diabetic and HIV/AIDS follow-up clients was poor. Illiteracy, having a family size greater than four, not having health professionals in the household, not having health insurance and urban residency were associated with poor prevention practices. Therefore, continuous health educations about good preventive behavioral practice should be enhanced by the health professionals.Keywords: behavioral practice, COVID-19, Ethiopia, prevention

Even though reduction of neonatal mortality is needed to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 2030, advanced maternal age is still an independent and a substantial risk factor for different adverse perinatal outcomes, in turn causes neonatal morbidity and mortality. In Ethiopia, research has validated that advanced maternal age is a significant factor in adverse perinatal outcomes, but researches which addressed or estimated its adverse perinatal outcomes are limited, reported inconsistent result and specifically no study was done in the study area. Therefore, this study was aimed to compare adverse perinatal outcomes and its associated factors among women with adult and advanced maternal age pregnancy in Northwest Ethiopia. Comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in Awi Zone, public hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia. Systematic random sampling was employed to select 348 adult and 176 advanced aged pregnant women. Structured questionnaire were used to collect the data. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25. Binary and multivariate logistic regressions were fitted to assess the association between adverse perinatal outcomes and explanatory variables. P-value less than 0.05 was used to declare statistical significance. Significant percentage of advanced aged women (29.1%) had adverse perinatal outcomes compared to (14.5%) adult aged women. Similarly, proportion low birth weight, preterm birth and low Apgar score were significantly higher among advanced maternal age. The odds of composite adverse perinatal outcomes were higher among advanced maternal age women when compared to adult aged women (AOR 2.01, 95% CI 1.06, 3.79). No formal education (AOR 2.75, 95% CI 1.27, 5.95), short birth interval (AOR 2.25, 95% CI 1.07, 4.73) and complications during pregnancy (AOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.10, 4.10) were also factors significantly associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Being advanced maternal age is at higher risk for adverse perinatal outcomes compared to adult aged women. Maternal illiteracy, short birth interval and complications during pregnancy were also significantly associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Access of equal education, provision of family planning and perinatal care (including early detection and management of complication) is recommended.

Background Timely initiation of breastfeeding is feeding of breast milk within one hour of birth, however, three in five babies were not breastfed in the first hour of birth globally. There is evidence that cesarean section is the major constraint for this low prevalence, but the impact of cesarean section on timely initiation of breastfeeding in Ethiopia is limited. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to provide evidence for policy makers, health professionals and program implementers. Methods This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Electronic bibliographic databases such as PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINHAL, Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Cochrane Library were used to search relevant studies and was conducted up to February 2021. Random effects model meta-analysis was applied to estimate the pooled impact of cesarean section on timely initiation of breastfeeding with 95% confidence intervals (CI). I2 statistical test and, funnel plot and Egger’s test were used to check heterogeneity and publication bias across included studies respectively. Results According to meta-analysis of 17 studies, the pooled estimate of timely initiation of breastfeeding among women who had cesarean section in Ethiopia was 40.1% (95% CI 33.29, 46.92). The meta-analysis of 29,919 study participants showed that cesarean section was associated with a 79% lower odds of timely initiation of breastfeeding compared with vaginal birth (OR 0.21; 95% CI 0.16, 0.28). Conclusions In Ethiopia, almost only one-third of mothers who gave birth by cesarean section initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth, much lower than the pooled prevalence among general population. Special health promotion, intervention and healthcare provider support during immediate or early skin to skin contact, and having focused breastfeeding guidelines for post-operative patient and trained health professionals should be considered for mothers who give birth through cesarean section.

Background Both capillary and venous blood samples have been interchangeably used for the diagnosis of malaria in Ethiopia. However, Plasmodium parasites are thought to be more concentrated in capillary than in venous blood. Hence, selecting a sample source where parasites are more concentrated is indispensable approach in order to maximize the accuracy of blood film microscopy. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the detection rate and the parasitemia level of Plasmodium species from conventional capillary and venous blood films, and buffy coat preparations. Methods A facility based cross-sectional study was conducted from Feburary to March 2020 among 210 febrile patients attending Hamusite health center, northwest Ethiopia. Capillary and venous blood samples were collected and buffy coat was prepared from each sample. Thin and thick blood films were prepared, stained, and examined microscopically following standard protocol. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Software version 20 and Med-Calc software version 19.3. Results Capillary blood buffy coat (61/210, 29.0%) had significantly higher detection rate as compared to capillary (48/210, 22.9%) and venous (42/210, 20.0%) blood films (p p = 0.070) in detecting Plasmodium species. The highest and the lowest mean asexual stage parasite counts were found in capillary blood buffy coat (4692.88) and venous blood (631.43) films, respectively showing significant variations (p Conclusion Capillary blood buffy coat samples showed the highest sensitivity in detecting and quantitating malaria parasites that its use should be promoted in clinical settings. However, conventional capillary and venous blood films could be used interchangeably.

Amare Teshome, Kirubel Derese, Getaneh Andualem Department of Dentistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Amare TeshomeDepartment of Dentistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaTel +251-910517002Email teferaden@gmail.comBackground: Oral halitosis, unpleasant or offensive odor to others, has become a major health concern among the general population, ranking the third most common reason for seeking a dentist behind dental caries and periodontal disease. Even though there have been repeated cases of halitosis in Ethiopia, there is no documented evidence.Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of halitosis in Northwest Ethiopia and to examine the relationship between halitosis and sociodemographic factors, oral habits, and health practices.Methods: From December 2019 to March 30, 2020, a hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A systematic random sampling method was used to select study participants. Following informed consent, sociodemographic characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires, and two qualified dental surgeons performed the oral examination. The organoleptic test was used to assess the presence of halitosis.Results: Six hundred sixty-one people took part in the study, with a mean age of 30.0 ± 14.76 years. The prevalence of oral halitosis was 44.2% (95% CI: 40.39– 47.96) among the study participants. Participants with no formal education were more prone to oral halitosis. Oral halitosis was common in students (18.5%), low-income individuals (22.2%), rural residents (12.3%), mouth breathers (19.1%), and participants with poor oral hygiene practices (15.3%). Independent factors of halitosis included rural residency (AOR=1.40, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.67), low economic status (AOR=1.81, 95% CI: 1.06,3.09), poor tooth brushing habit (AOR=1.85 (1.31, 2.61), smoking (AOR=2.69 (1.39, 5.21) and dental caries (AOR=8.74 (5.57, 13.71).Conclusion: The prevalence of oral halitosis was 44.2% among the study participants. Rural residency, low monthly income, poor tooth-brushing habit, smoking, and dental caries were independent factors of halitosis.Keywords: bad breath, oral halitosis, prevalence, oral malodor, Northwest Ethiopia

The dietary diversity of pregnant and lactating women remains unacceptably poor in resource‐limited countries such as Ethiopia. Despite the presence of inconsistent and inconclusive small‐scale studies, it is difficult to portray an actual picture of dietary diversity and dietary practices of women in Ethiopia. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of dietary diversity, dietary practice, and dietary patterns of pregnant and lactating women in Ethiopia. Electronic and gray literature sources were explored. A total of 3,256 articles were found, of which 38 were included in the final analysis. The data were analyzed by using STATA version 15. The pooled estimates were presented using random‐effects models due to considerable heterogeneities among studies. In this study, 16,412 pregnant and lactating women were included. The pooled prevalence of low, medium, and high dietary diversity scores of pregnant women was 37.1%, 41.55%, and 39.3%, respectively. Likewise, low, medium, and high dietary diversity scores of lactating women were 50.31%, 41.22%, and 9.1%, respectively. The mean dietary diversity of pregnant and lactating women was 3.99 ± 0.20. Regarding the minimum dietary diversity, 56.6% of pregnant women and 50.21% of lactating women were found to have inadequate dietary diversities. Two‐third (65.7%) of pregnant women were found to have poor dietary practice. Starchy foods were the main staple foods of study subjects, whereas organ meats were least consumed food types. The dietary diversity score, minimum dietary diversity, and dietary practices of women are suboptimal and below WHO and FAO recommendations. This could lead to both macro‐ and micronutrient deficiencies. Policymakers, program managers, healthcare workers, and stakeholders need to redesign nutrition promotion and intervention programs to alleviate this issue., The abstract is about the pooled prevalence of dietary diversity and practice of pregnant and lactating women in Ethiopia.

Anopheles mosquitoes are the main vectors of malaria. There is little information on the current entomological aspects of Anopheles mosquitoes in Amhara region of northwestern Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevailing species composition, parous rate, and infection rate of Anopheles mosquitoes in the Bahir Dar city administration. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January through July 2020. For this, six Centers for Disease Control and Prevention light traps (three traps indoor and three traps outdoor) were used to collect adult female Anopheles mosquitoes. The species were morphologically identified, and the parous and infection rates were determined via dissection of ovaries and salivary gland, respectively. A total of 378 adult female Anopheles mosquitoes comprised of three species (Anopheles d’thali, Anopheles rhodesiensis, and Anopheles gambiae complex) were collected and identified at the study sites. Anopheles rhodesiensis was the predominant species accounting for 90% of all collections at the Zenzelima site, followed by An. gambiae complex (6.5%). In contrast, An. gambiae complex was the predominant species at the Tis Abay site, comprising 94% of captures. The overall parous and infection rates were 35 (62.5%) and 1 (2.9%), respectively.

Mekuanint Geta,1 Endalew Yizengaw,2 Zegeye Getaneh,3 Tamyalew Getahun4 1Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia; 2Departments of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia; 3Department of Hematology and Immunohematology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia; 4Laboratory Department, Addis Alem Hospital, Bahir Dar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Mekuanint GetaDepartment of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, PO Box 196, Gondar, EthiopiaEmail yageta23@gmail.comBackground: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes severe liver disease, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and life-threatening liver disease. Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the most dominant public health problems these days. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HBV infection among patients attending Addis Alem Hospital, Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from January to February 2019 on HBV registered from January 2016 to December 2018 for three years period. The presence of HBsAg in serum was detected using the One Step Cassette Style HBsAg test kit. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the characteristics of participants with HBV infection. Statistical association of the determinants with HBV infection was determined by the X2 test.Results: In this study, a total of 2010 participants of HBsAg rapid test records in the laboratory logbook were included. The median age of women was 25 years. The overall seroprevalence of HBsAg was 78 (3.9%). There was a general increment of HBV infection from 2016 to 2018, X2 =7.52; P=0.023. Age (X2 =8.19; P= 0.042) and sex (X2 =37.77; P < 0.001) were associated with HBsAg positivity.Conclusion and Recommendations: An intermediate seroprevalence of HBV infection was detected among participants in our study area. This figure raises significant public health concerns. Therefore, implementing strategies for routine screening of women for HBV and hospital attendants would be critical.Keywords: HBV, HBsAg, Addis Alem, Bahir Dar

Belayneh Shetie Workneh,1 Enyew Getaneh Mekonen2 1Department of Emergency and Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia; 2Department of Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Enyew Getaneh Mekonen Tel +251946607528Email enyewgetaneh12@gmail.comIntroduction: Low back pain is a very common health problem that most people experience at some point in their working life. It results in sick leave, disability, producing significant restrictions on usual activity and participation among many office workers. The working style of bank workers is sedentary mostly and the alignment of their chairs, table, and computers is not designed based on their health aspects which exposes them to low back pain.Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of low back pain among bank workers in Gondar city.Methods: Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 20th October to 10th November 2020 at banks in Gondar city. A simple random sampling technique was employed to select 296 bank workers. A structured pretested self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were entered in epi-info version 7, analyzed using SPSS version 21, and presented by frequencies, percentages, and tables. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were employed using a binary logistic regression model. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered as factors significantly associated and the odds ratio with a 95% CI was used to determine the strength of association.Results: The prevalence of low back pain among bank workers in the last 12 months was 55.4%. Being female, work-related stress, lack of physical activity, using a fixed chair and a chair without an armrest, and lifting heavy objects increases the risk of developing low back pain.Conclusion: The prevalence of low back pain among bank workers in Gondar city was high. It is better to establish a health screening team, avail a movable chair and a chair with an armrest, and give special attention to female workers and bank workers with stress, and do physical activity to reduce the risk of developing low back pain.Keywords: banks, bank workers, low back pain, prevalence, associated factors, Ethiopia

A promotional role for androgen receptor (AR) signaling in hepatocellular carcinogenesis is emerging. In pre-clinical models, including diethylnitrosamine- (DEN-) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), anti-androgen therapies delay hepatocarcinogenesis. However, pharmacologic anti-androgen therapy in advanced HCC patients fails, suggesting that AR plays a role in HCC onset. This study aims to characterize AR expression and function throughout DEN-induced liver inflammation and carcinogenesis and evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic AR antagonism to prevent hepatocarcinogenesis. We demonstrate that pharmacologic AR antagonism with enzalutamide inhibits hepatocellular carcinogenesis. With enzalutamide treatment, we observe decreased CYP2E1 expression, reducing DEN-induced hepatocyte death and DNA ethyl-adducts. AR protein expression analyses show that DEN causes an initial upregulation of AR in portal fibroblasts and leukocytes, but not hepatocytes, suggesting that hepatocyte-autonomous AR signaling is not essential for DEN-induced carcinogenesis. Ablating androgen signaling by surgical castration reduced pre-carcinogen Kupffer cell populations but did not alter DEN-mediated immune cell recruitment nor AR expression. In this study, we identified that anti-androgen interventions modulate mutagenic DNA adducts, tumour initiation, and immune cell composition. Additionally, we find that AR expression in hepatocytes is not present during nor required for early DEN-mediated carcinogenesis.

s Backgrounds Despite remarkable progress in the reduction of maternal mortality, postpartum depression remains a major public health problem among vulnerable populations. In Ethiopia, study findings regarding postpartum depression and its association with intimate partner violence and social support have been inconsistent. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum depression and its association with intimate partner violence and inadequate social support in Ethiopia. Methods We systematically searched international databases like PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library. All identified observational studies reporting the postpartum depression and or its predictors in Ethiopia were included. Two authors independently extracted all necessary data using a standardized data extraction format. The I2 statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies. A random-effects model was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum depression and its associations with the selected predictors. Results The random effect meta-analysis of thirteen studies showed a pooled prevalence of postpartum depression was 21.55% (95% CI: 17.89, 25.94). The highest prevalence of postpartum depression occurred in Addis Ababa, 23.3% and the lowest was in Harar, 13.11%. Our meta-analysis indicated a 5.46 folds increased risk of postpartum depression among women exposed to intimate partner violence (POR = 5.46 (95%CI: 3.94, 7.56, I2=38.8%) and 6.27 folds increased risk postpartum depression among women who had inadequate social support (POR = 6.27 (95%CI: 4.83, 8.13, I2=0) relative to those who had adequate social support. The meta-analysis further revealed that marital dissatisfaction (POR = 2.6%; 95%CI: 1.48–4.65), previous postpartum depression (POR = 2.03%; 95%CI: 1.72–2.4), and substance abuse (POR = 2.03%; 95%CI: 1.72–2.4) were associated with postpartum depression. Conclusions Our study indicates that two in every ten postpartum women in Ethiopia are suffering from postpartum depression. Intimate partner violence and social support should be a major focus to improve women's mental health during postpartum period with the reduction of substance abuse. There is an urgent need for concerted efforts in the reduction of postpartum depression through prevention efforts of intimate partner violence and substance abuse.

Hussen Ebrahim,1 Fikir Asrie,2 Zegeye Getaneh2 1Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia; 2Department of Hematology & Immunohematology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Hussen EbrahimDepartment of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie 1145, EthiopiaTel +251921332772Email husshosam@gmail.comBackground: Diabetes is a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia. The disease is highly associated with micro-vascularand macro-vascular complications. Thus, the main aim of this study was to compare basic coagulation profiles and platelet parameters among type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and healthy controls.Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Dessie Referral Hospital from February to April 2019. A total of 180 study participants consisting of (60 T1DM, 60 T2DM, and 60 healthy controls) were enrolled using a systematic random sampling technique. Basic coagulation profiles and platelet parameters were determined using the HUMACLOT JUNIOR coagulometer and DIRUI BF 6500 automated hematology analyzerrespectively. Non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test supplemented with Dunn-Bonferroni correction and Spearman rank-order correlation test were used to compare basic coagulation profiles and platelet parameters among the groups. The test result was expressed in median and interquartile range and presented in texts and tables. P-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.Results: Prothrombin time (PT) and international normalization ratio (INR) were significantly reduced in T2DM as compared to T1DM and healthy controls (p < 0.05). Platelet distribution width (PDW) and mean platelet volume (MPV)were significantly increased in both T1DM and T2DM as compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). Moreover, PT and INR were negatively correlated with fasting blood glucose (FBG) among T1DM and PT, INR and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were negatively correlated with FBG among T2DM.Conclusion: Basic coagulation profiles and platelet parameters were significantly different between diabetes and controls where PT and INR in T2DM were significantly reduced as compared to T1DM and controls. However, PDW and MPV were significantly elevated in both T1DM and T2DM as compared to controls. Moreover,FBGwas significantly negatively correlated with PT and INR among T1DM and FBGwas significantly negatively correlated with PT, INR, and APTT among T2DM. Therefore, T2DM may be related to increased risk of thrombosis indicated by reduced PT and INR and high PDW and MPV than T1DM and controls. Basic coagulation profiles and platelet parameters should be regularly tested for early diagnosis and proper management of diabetes-related thrombosis.Keywords: diabetes mellitus, basic coagulation profiles, platelet parameters, Dessie, Ethiopia

Brucellosis is an infectious and widespread zoonotic disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella and can induce considerable human suffering and huge economic losses in animals. Thus, the aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on the seroprevalence of bovine brucellosis in Ethiopia. PubMed, Science Direct, African Journals Online, and Google Scholar were used to search the articles. All references were screened and articles, which reported seroprevalence of bovine brucellosis in Ethiopia were included in the study. Meta-analysis using random-effects models was made to calculate the pooled seroprevalence of brucellosis. This review included 15 papers. The estimated pooled seroprevalence of brucellosis was found to be 3.0% (95% CI: 2.0, 4.0). The subgroup analysis showed that there was a statistically significant association between the disease and geographical location, setting, laboratory technique employed and study years. Also, there was some evidence of publication bias (Egger’s test, p = 0.0003) on studies reporting the prevalence of brucellosis in Ethiopia. This review proves a high seroprevalence of brucellosis in the country and appropriate control strategies are recommended. Moreover, further study on the risk factors is also required to develop cost-effective preventive strategies.

Solomon Getawa, Zegeye Getaneh, Mulugeta Melku Department of Hematology and Immunohematology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Solomon GetawaDepartment of Hematology and Immunohematology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaTel +251-914-665-736Email solomon2525geta@gmail.comIntroduction: The hematopoietic system is one of the systems which can be affected by malnutrition, leading to impaired production of all blood cell lines. Undernourished children with hematological abnormalities like anemia are at higher risk of mortality. Therefore, this study aimed at determining the magnitude and associated factors of hematological abnormalities among undernourished under-five children attending at the University of Gondar Specialized Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.Methods and Materials: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 251 undernourished under-five children at University of Gondar Specialized Referral Hospital from January to May 2020. A convenient sampling technique was employed to select study participants. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Blood samples were collected for complete blood count which were determined by Sysmex KX-21N analyzer. Stool sample was processed via direct wet mount. Thin and thick blood films were examined to assess malaria parasite. The data were entered to EpiData version 4.6.0.0 and analyzed using SPSS version 23 software. Bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression model were fitted to identify factors associated with hematological abnormalities. A p-value < 0.05 in the multivariable analysis was considered as statistically significant.Results: The overall magnitude of anemia, leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia was 53.4%, 26.7%, 23.9%, 8%, and 2.8%, respectively. Being male, age 6– 23 months, high birth order, intestinal parasite infection, edema, not eating vegetables and fruits, and paternal occupation were found to be associated with anemia. Only the age of a child was associated with leukocytosis in undernourished children.Conclusion: The current study demonstrated the predominant existence of anemia, leukocytosis, and thrombocytosis among undernourished under-five children. Therefore, early diagnosis, monitoring and setting intervention strategies for anemia especially among children under two years old are required to prevent further complication.Keywords: anemia, leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, children, undernutrition, Ethiopia

Background Despite the implementation of various strategies such as the declaration of COVID-19 emergency state, staying at home, lockdown, and massive protective equipment distribution, still COVID-19 is increasing alarmingly. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the community’s perception of COVID-19 and its associated factors in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was employed among 635 Gondar administrative town residents, from April 20 to April 27, 2020. Study participants were selected using a cluster sampling technique. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Epi-Data version 4.6 and STATA 14 were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Logistic regressions (bivariable and multivariable) were performed to identify statistically significant variables at p < 0.05. Results Of the 635 study participants, 623 have completed the study with a 98.1% response rate. The mean age of participants was 36.32 years (SD ± 13.24). The overall magnitude of the community’s misconception about COVID-19 stood at 56.9% (349). Age and religion showed a negative association with misconceptions. To be specific, being in the age group of 27–33 (AOR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.32, 0.86) and being a Muslim (AOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.34, 0.78) were negatively associated with the misconception of COVID-19, whereas occupation and awareness showed positive associations with the misconception. To be specific, having an unemployed occupational status (AOR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.14, 2.82) and being unaware of the number of cases of COVID-19 (AOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.05, 2.62) were positively associated with the community’s misconception on COVID-19. Conclusion The magnitude of the community’s misconception about COVID-19 among Gondar town residents was high. Age, religion, unemployment, and unawareness about the number of COVID-19 cases were significant factors of misconception about COVID-19. Thus, stakeholders ought to build community perceptions about COVID 19. To resolve misinformation about COVID-19, accurate and relevant information should be provided to the community using appropriate communication media.

Self-management in diabetic patients is vital to keep the illness under control and avert any long term complications. Effective management of diabetes is a difficult task without an adequate understanding of the existing level of knowledge, attitude, and practice related to self-management. Knowing the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice towards self-management may help to provide information for health policy-makers to design and implement effective interventions to reduce diabetes-related morbidity and mortality. To assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice towards self-management among patients with diabetes at Debre Tabor General Hospital chronic diseases follow up clinic. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2016. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to select 206 patients. A structured pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. More than half of the study participants 114 (55.3%) had poor knowledge about diabetic self-management. Poor attitude of diabetic self-management was detected among 109 (52.9%) of studied patients. Nearly two-thirds 136 (66.0%) of the study participants had poor practice towards self-management. More than half of the participants had poor knowledge and attitude towards self-management and nearly two-thirds of them had poor practice. It is better to emphasize the importance of the patient as the key person in diabetic management.

Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging respiratory infection, and the crisis has become a worldwide issue, and society has become concerned in various aspects. Good information exposure related to transmission, prevention, and risk factors of COVID-19 can be the best means to reduce the risk of disease exposure and mitigate further spread. The countries that have well practiced this strategy (society information exposure) were controlling disease progression, but there is a low practice in sub-Saharan countries, including Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the information exposure level about COVID-19 and influencing factors among northwest community of Ethiopia. Methods and materials Community-based cross-sectional study design was employed among the community of Gondar city from April 20 to 27, 2020. A total of 623 study participants were involved in this interview, and a systematic sampling technique was applied to select the households. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and then exported to STATA version 14 for analysis. A multivariable binary logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with good information exposure about COVID-19. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated to show the strength of association. A p-value Results The overall rate of information exposure about COVID-19 was 44.9%. Age 18-26 years [AOR=0.53; 95% CI (0.28-0.99)] and 34-45 years [AOR=0.44; 95% CI (0.24-0.80)], elementary school [AOR=2.48; 95% CI (1.20-5.15)], secondary school [AOR=3.98; 95% CI (1.99-7.99)], college and above [AOR=8.38; 95% CI (4.10-17.26)], browsed or follow social media [AOR=2.21; 95% CI (1.44-3.38)] and those having a discussion with their family members [AOR=2.37; 95% CI (1.44-3.90)] and friends [AOR=2.15; 95% CI (1.38-3.34)] were the factors significantly associated with good information exposure towards COVID-19. Conclusion Communities total level of good information exposure from different information platforms about COVID-19 in this study area remains low. Age, high level of education, browsing social media, and those having interpersonal (family and friends) discussion were the factors that significantly influence communities who have good information exposure related to COVID-19. Therefore, efforts on community mobilization through regional/national mass media and other information conveying platforms are recommended.

Introduction Medication administration errors (MAEs) are common health problems that threaten patient safety and raise mortality rates, duration of hospital stay, and cost of services. It also influences healthcare professionals performing the procedure and healthcare organizations. Its prevalence in Ethiopia is high ranging from 51.8% to 90.8%. Objective This study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of MAE among nurses at Northwest Amhara Region Referral Hospitals. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2019. A simple random sampling technique was employed to select 348 nurses. Structured pretested self-administered questionnaires and an observational checklist were used to collect data. The data were entered in Epi-info version 7, analyzed using SPSS version 20 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL), and presented in tables and graphs. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were computed to identify the factors associated with MAEs. p Values

Introduction Even though advancement in mother-to-child HIV transmission prevention services is observed, many infants are lost to follow-up and could not access the full package of mother-to-child HIV transmission prevention services as a result. This is one of the obstacles to the effectiveness of the program. Therefore, determining the magnitude of lost to follow-up and its predictors is important among HIV-exposed infants. Method This institution-based retrospective cohort study was conducted from August 2013 to June 2018 at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. We retrieved charts of 423 child–mother pairs through a simple random sampling technique. Data collectors extracted data by using a data extraction tool adapted from the Ethiopian Federal Ministry of Health HIV-exposed infant follow-up form. Bivariable and multivariable Cox regression models were fitted to identify predictors of lost to follow-up. Result A total of 402 child–mother pairs were included in the study. Of the study participants, 6.0% were lost to follow-up for more than 3 months before the declaration of their HIV status. Born from rural residence mother (AHR = 3.5; 95% CI 1.549–7.894), infants whose mothers have three and more children (AHR = 3; 95% CI 1.284–6.963), and low birth weight infants (AHR = 3.2; 95% CI 1.055–9.450) were independent predictors of lost to follow-up among HIV-exposed infants. Conclusion Significant numbers of infants were unable to access full HIV diagnosis and care services as a result of loss to follow-up. Special consideration for mothers having large numbers of children, rural residence, and low birth weight infants could be an important intervention to decrease lost to follow-up.

Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) patients show a significant derangement in various hematological parameters including changes affecting the red blood cells (RBCs). All these derangements have an imposing effect on any of the RBC indices. Thus, the main aim of this study was determining the RBCs parameters and their correlation with renal function, and also the magnitude of anemia in DM patients in comparison with healthy controls. Methods A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the chronic illness clinic of University of Gondar Hospital from January to April 2020. A total of 246 participants (164 DM and 82 controls) were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Five milliliters venous blood was collected by vacutainer blood collection technique. RBC parameters and renal function tests were determined by using Sysmex KX21N and BS-200E Mindray analyzers, respectively. The data were tested for normality using Shapiro-Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests. Independent sample t-test and Pearson's and Spearman correlation statistics were used to analyze variables. A p-value ˂0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results The mean hemoglobin (Hgb) concentration was 13.8±0.7 and 15±1.3 among DM and controls, respectively. RBC (p=0.014), Hgb (p ˂0.001), hematocrit (Hct) (p ˂0.001), and mean cell volume (MCV) (p ˂0.001) were significantly lower in DM patients as compared to controls. On the other hand, mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was significantly increased in DM patients (p ˂0.001) than the controls. Besides, a significant negative correlation was found between Hgb and creatinine (Cr) in DM patients. Conclusion The mean values of RBC parameters (RBC, Hgb, Hct, and MCV) for DM patients were found significantly lower than the control groups. Besides a significant negative correlation was found between Cr and RBC indices (RBC, Hgb, Hct, and MCV) in DM patients. It is, therefore, suggested that RBC parameters abnormalities should be evaluated and treated periodically in DM patients for better prognosis and quality of life.

Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging respiratory disease that is caused by a novel coronavirus and was first detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. The disease is highly infectious, and its main clinical symptoms include fever, dry cough, fatigue, myalgia, and dyspnea. Healthcare providers are in front in fighting the coronavirus spread by making themselves the risk of contracting the disease. Objective To assess the preparedness and responses of healthcare providers to combat the spread of COVID-19 among North Shewa Zone Hospitals, Amhara, Ethiopia. Methods Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2020 among 422 healthcare providers in the North Shewa Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia using a self-administered questionnaire. Study subjects were selected through systematic random sampling based on their proportional distribution of sample size to each hospital. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. The data were coded and entered into the Epi data 4.2.1 version and the analysis was carried out in Statistical Package for Social Science 25 versions. Results Four hundred four participants involved in the study have been given a response rate of 95.7%. The self-satisfaction of healthcare providers revealed 301 (74.5%) of study participants feel unsafe in their workplace. Two-third, 260 (64.4%), of them responded that they feel anxious while working with febrile patients. Nearly one-third (31%), 27.4%, 15.9%, 14.5%, 14.2% of HCPs had access to gloves, facemask, goggle, shoe, and apron respectively in hospitals. Conclusion Protecting healthcare workers is a public health priority. Access to essential personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic was limited. The poor perception of healthcare professionals about not having enough support from medical institutions and public health authorities raises the need to urgently implement strategies to protect healthcare workers in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.