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Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common chronic diseases globally. Despite the presence of national strategies to prevent potential sequelae DM has been associated with increased morbidities and mortality in Ethiopia, and the prevalence appears to be on the rise. Although studies have been conducted among DM patients in the country, there is a lack of information that could allow an in-depth understanding of the situation. Objective: To assess dietary practices and associated factors among adult DM patients at academic tertiary-level hospitals in central Ethiopia. Methods: The institution-based concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted from January 01 to 30 2024 involving 420 adult DM patients. Participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique for quantitative study. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 16 participants for qualitative analysis. For the quantitative study, a self-administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data, and an in-depth interview for the qualitative part. Multivariate binary logistic regressions were used to assess the explanatory variables associated with dietary practice. A thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data. Result: Of 420 eligible participants, 406 (96.7%) participated in the study. The overall proportion of good dietary practices among participants was 172 (44.2%). The being female, urban residence a family history of DM, and good dietary were significantly associated with the dietary practice. From qualitative analysis, two themes have emerged; Living as before and not adhering to diabetic dietary recommendations and barriers to adherence to effective eating practice. Conclusions and recommendations: Less than half of adult DM patients had good dietary practices. Sex, geographic location, family history of DM, and level of knowledge of diabetic diet were associated with dietary practice. Intervention programs on awareness creation and training to improve the dietary practice by stakeholders were recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Contaminated lake water and fish can be sources of bacterial pathogens of public health concern, including pathogenic E. coli. Within Ethiopia, specifically, Central Oromia, raw fish consumption is a common practice. Although there are few reports on occurrence of E. coli O157 in fish destined for human consumption and children under five years, information on the transmission pathways of E. coli O157 and other sorbitol non-fermenting (SN-F) E. coli from water-to-fish-to-human, and their virulence factors and antimicrobial resistant determinants along the fish supply chain is lacking. The study aimed to investigate the occurrence, molecular characteristics, and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli O157 and other SN-F E. coli strains in fish, lake water and humans in central Oromia, Ethiopia. A total of 750 samples (450 fish samples, 150 water samples, 150 human stool samples) were collected from five lakes and three health facilities. The samples were processed following the standard protocol recommended by European Food Safety Authority and Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method for detection of the bacteria, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests, respectively. Molecular characterization of presumptive isolates was performed using Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) for serotyping, determination of virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance traits, and genetic linkage of the isolates. Overall, 3.9% (29/750) of the samples had SN-F E. coli; of which 6.7% (n = 10), 1.8% (n = 8) and 7.3% (n = 11) were retrieved from water, fish, and diarrheic human patients, respectively. The WGS confirmed that all the isolates were SN-F non-O157: H7 E. coli strains. We reported two new E. coli strains with unknown O-antigen from fish and human samples. All the strains have multiple virulence factors and one or more genes encoding for them. Genetic relatedness was observed among strains from the same sources (water, fish, and humans). Most isolates were resistant to ampicillin (100%), tetracycline (100%), cefotaxime (100%), ceftazidime (100%), meropenem (100%), nalidixic acid (93.1%) and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (79.3%). Majority of the strains were resistant to chloramphenicol (58.6%) and ciprofloxacin (48.3%), while small fraction showed resistance to azithromycin (3.45%). Isolates had an overall MDR profile of 87.5%. Majority, (62.1%; n = 18) of the strains had acquired MDR traits. Genes encoding for mutational resistance and Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) were also detected. In conclusion, our study revealed the occurrence of virulent and MDR SN-F E. coli strains in water, fish, and humans. Although no genetic relatedness was observed among strains from various sources, the genomic clustering among strains from the same sources strongly suggests the potential risk of transmission along the supply chain at the human–fish-environment interface if strict hygienic fish production is not in place. Further robust genetic study of the new strains with unknown O-antigens, and the epidemiology of SN-F E. coli is required to elucidate the molecular profile and public health implications of the pathogens.

Abstract Background Acute heart failure is the rapid onset of new or worsening symptoms and signs of heart failure. Despite the increasing burden of heart failure in developing countries like Ethiopia, there is a paucity of comprehensive data regarding the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of acute heart failure, especially in the selected study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of hospitalized patients with acute heart failure at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of 303 acute heart failure patients who were admitted to the medical wards and intensive care unit of Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, central Ethiopia, from July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023. A pretested data abstraction format was used for data extraction from electronic medical records, and SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of acute heart failure. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality. The odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to show the strength of the association. Results Of the 303 patients, 51.5% were females, and the mean age was 56.7 years. The most frequent symptom and sign were dyspnea (98.7%) and peripheral edema (79%), respectively. The commonest underlying cause and precipitating factor of acute heart failure were cor pulmonale (22.8%) and pneumonia (35.3%), respectively. The commonest anti-remodeling medications prescribed on discharge were beta-blockers (47.9%), followed by mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (42.8%) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (38.6%), and the least prescribed were sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (8.3%). The in-hospital mortality rate was 8.6%, and the median length of hospital stay was 9 days. Based on the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the most important predictors of in-hospital mortality were systolic blood pressure (SBP) 20 mg/dl (AOR = 5.48; 95% CI: 1.47, 20.49), and presence of dyslipidemia (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI: 1.15, 12.07). Conclusions This study has shown that systolic blood pressure (SBP) 20 mg/dL, chloride (Cl) level

Abstract Background Globally, disrespectful, and abusive childbirth practices negatively impact women’s health, create barriers to accessing health facilities, and contribute to poor birth experiences and adverse outcomes for both mothers and newborns. However, the degree to which disrespectful maternity care is associated with complications during childbirth is poorly understood, particularly in Ethiopia. Aim To determine the extent to which disrespectful maternity care is associated with maternal and neonatal-related complications in central Ethiopia. Methods A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in the West Shewa Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia. The sample size was determined using the single population proportion formula. Participants (n = 440) were selected with a simple random sampling technique using computer-generated random numbers. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with a pretested questionnaire and were entered into Epidata and subsequently exported to STATA version 17 for the final analysis. Analyses included descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and an odds ratio (OR) of 0.05. Co-founders were controlled by adjusting for maternal sociodemographic characteristics. The primary exposure was disrespectful maternity care; the main outcomes were maternal and neonatal-related complications. Results Disrespectful maternity care was reported by 344 women (78.2%) [95% CI: 74–82]. Complications were recorded in one-third of mothers (33.4%) and neonates (30%). Disrespectful maternity care was significantly associated with maternal (AOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.29, 3.8) and neonatal-related complications (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.54, 5.04). Conclusion The World Health Organization advocates respectful maternal care during facility-based childbirth to improve the quality of care and outcomes. However, the findings of this study indicated high mistreatment and abuse during childbirth in central Ethiopia and a significant association between such mistreatment and the occurrence of both maternal and neonatal complications during childbirth. Therefore, healthcare professionals ought to prioritise respectful maternity care to achieve improved birth outcomes and alleviate mistreatment and abuse within the healthcare sector.

Contaminated lake water and fish can be sources of bacterial pathogens of public health concern, including pathogenic E. coli. Within Ethiopia, specifically, Central Oromia, raw fish consumption is a common practice. Although there are few reports on occurrence of E. coli O157 in fish destined for human consumption and children under five years, information on the transmission pathways of E. coli O157 and other sorbitol non-fermenting (SN-F) E. coli from water-to-fish-to-human, and their virulence factors and antimicrobial resistant determinants along the fish supply chain is lacking. The study aimed to investigate the occurrence, molecular characteristics, and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli O157 and other SN-F E. coli strains in fish, lake water and humans in central Oromia, Ethiopia. A total of 750 samples (450 fish samples, 150 water samples, 150 human stool samples) were collected from five lakes and three health facilities. The samples were processed following the standard protocol recommended by European Food Safety Authority and Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method for detection of the bacteria, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests, respectively. Molecular characterization of presumptive isolates was performed using Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) for serotyping, determination of virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance traits, and genetic linkage of the isolates. Overall, 3.9% (29/750) of the samples had SN-F E. coli; of which 6.7% (n = 10), 1.8% (n = 8) and 7.3% (n = 11) were retrieved from water, fish, and diarrheic human patients, respectively. The WGS confirmed that all the isolates were SN-F non-O157: H7 E. coli strains. We reported two new E. coli strains with unknown O-antigen from fish and human samples. All the strains have multiple virulence factors and one or more genes encoding for them. Genetic relatedness was observed among strains from the same sources (water, fish, and humans). Most isolates were resistant to ampicillin (100%), tetracycline (100%), cefotaxime (100%), ceftazidime (100%), meropenem (100%), nalidixic acid (93.1%) and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (79.3%). Majority of the strains were resistant to chloramphenicol (58.6%) and ciprofloxacin (48.3%), while small fraction showed resistance to azithromycin (3.45%). Isolates had an overall MDR profile of 87.5%. Majority, (62.1%; n = 18) of the strains had acquired MDR traits. Genes encoding for mutational resistance and Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) were also detected. In conclusion, our study revealed the occurrence of virulent and MDR SN-F E. coli strains in water, fish, and humans. Although no genetic relatedness was observed among strains from various sources, the genomic clustering among strains from the same sources strongly suggests the potential risk of transmission along the supply chain at the human–fish-environment interface if strict hygienic fish production is not in place. Further robust genetic study of the new strains with unknown O-antigens, and the epidemiology of SN-F E. coli is required to elucidate the molecular profile and public health implications of the pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, disrespectful, and abusive childbirth practices negatively impact women's health, create barriers to accessing health facilities, and contribute to poor birth experiences and adverse outcomes for both mothers and newborns. However, the degree to which disrespectful maternity care is associated with complications during childbirth is poorly understood, particularly in Ethiopia. Aim: To determine the extent to which disrespectful maternity care is associated with maternal and neonatal-related complications in central Ethiopia. Methods: A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in the West Shewa Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia. The sample size was determined using the single population proportion formula. Participants (n = 440) were selected with a simple random sampling technique using computer-generated random numbers. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with a pretested questionnaire and were entered into Epidata and subsequently exported to STATA version 17 for the final analysis. Analyses included descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and an odds ratio (OR) of 0.05. Co-founders were controlled by adjusting for maternal sociodemographic characteristics. The primary exposure was disrespectful maternity care; the main outcomes were maternal and neonatal-related complications. Results: Disrespectful maternity care was reported by 344 women (78.2%) [95% CI: 74–82]. Complications were recorded in one-third of mothers (33.4%) and neonates (30%). Disrespectful maternity care was significantly associated with maternal (AOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.29, 3.8) and neonatal-related complications (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.54, 5.04). Conclusion: The World Health Organization advocates respectful maternal care during facility-based childbirth to improve the quality of care and outcomes. However, the findings of this study indicated high mistreatment and abuse during childbirth in central Ethiopia and a significant association between such mistreatment and the occurrence of both maternal and neonatal complications during childbirth. Therefore, healthcare professionals ought to prioritise respectful maternity care to achieve improved birth outcomes and alleviate mistreatment and abuse within the healthcare sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute heart failure is the rapid onset of new or worsening symptoms and signs of heart failure. Despite the increasing burden of heart failure in developing countries like Ethiopia, there is a paucity of comprehensive data regarding the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of acute heart failure, especially in the selected study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of hospitalized patients with acute heart failure at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of 303 acute heart failure patients who were admitted to the medical wards and intensive care unit of Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, central Ethiopia, from July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023. A pretested data abstraction format was used for data extraction from electronic medical records, and SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of acute heart failure. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality. The odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to show the strength of the association. Results: Of the 303 patients, 51.5% were females, and the mean age was 56.7 years. The most frequent symptom and sign were dyspnea (98.7%) and peripheral edema (79%), respectively. The commonest underlying cause and precipitating factor of acute heart failure were cor pulmonale (22.8%) and pneumonia (35.3%), respectively. The commonest anti-remodeling medications prescribed on discharge were beta-blockers (47.9%), followed by mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (42.8%) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (38.6%), and the least prescribed were sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (8.3%). The in-hospital mortality rate was 8.6%, and the median length of hospital stay was 9 days. Based on the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the most important predictors of in-hospital mortality were systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 115 mmHg (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.28; 95% CI: 1.99, 19.78), chloride level < 96 mg/dL (AOR = 4.88; 95% CI: 1.30, 18.33), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) > 20 mg/dl (AOR = 5.48; 95% CI: 1.47, 20.49), and presence of dyslipidemia (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI: 1.15, 12.07). Conclusions: This study has shown that systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 115 mmHg, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) > 20 mg/dL, chloride (Cl) level < 96 mg/dL, and the presence of dyslipidemia were statistically significant factors associated with in-hospital mortality among patients with acute heart failure. Hence, healthcare providers should stratify patients with acute heart failure upon admission based on their risk of in-hospital mortality and address those potential negative prognostic indicators accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gemachu Hirbaye,1 Eyob Hirpa Tola,2 Nebyou Moje,2 Teshale Sori2 1School of Veterinary Medicine, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia; 2College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Eyob Hirpa Tola, Email eyob.hirpa@aau.edu.etBackground: Infectious bronchitis (IB) is an economically important disease in poultry with worldwide distribution. The occurrence of IB has been reported both in commercial and backyard poultry in Ethiopia, although comprehensive information lacks available prevalence of the disease and the circulating serotypes.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to June 2022 in seven commercial farms found in East Shewa, Central Ethiopia. Serological assay using indirect ELISA, virus isolation techniques in embryonated eggs, and molecular techniques such as one-step reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting a 466 bp S1 gene were employed.Results: A total of 196 blood samples, 7 pools (35) of swab samples, and 5 pools of tracheal samples were investigated. The results of serological analysis revealed that 97.96% (192/196; 95% CI: 94.86– 99.44) of the sera samples were found to be positive for antibodies against IBV. Out of the 7 pools of swab and 5 pools of tracheal tissue samples analyzed using RT-PCR 33.3% (4/12) of them gave positive results all from swab samples. The RT-PCR-positive samples were subjected to a nested PCR yielding 295bp and 154bp indicating the circulation of Mass and 793/B (4/91) strains of IBV, respectively. The 12 pools of samples inoculated into embryonated egg showed cytopathic changes such as congestion, bleeding, and deformation only after three passages.Conclusion: Two serotypes of IBV are circulating in Ethiopian chickens, and molecular identification of the Massachusetts serotype is the first report in Ethiopia. Further epidemiological investigation is needed in order to devise effective control measures.Keywords: chickens, Central Ethiopia, IBV, nested-PCR, RT-PCR, serology

Abayneh Halili, Belay Echafo Lubago, Feleke Doyore Agide School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wachemo University, Hossana, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Feleke Doyore Agide, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wachemo University, P.O. Box: 667, Hossana, Ethiopia, Tel +251916291489, Email feledoag@yahoo.comBackground: A time-motion study is a scientific method for recording time spent on various tasks in a narrow range of specialized work settings, beginning with initial enrollment in ART provision. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the time motion of patient satisfaction with antiretroviral therapy services in Central Ethiopia.Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 422 patients from June 14 to July 30, 2021. We used a simple random sampling technique to select the participants. Structural input-related qualitative data were collected using an in-depth interview and used for concurrent triangulation with quantitative. Quantitative data were collected using a standardized and pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 24.0. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify independent predictors of time motion and patient satisfaction. The degree of association between the outcome and independent variables was assessed by using an odds ratio with a 95% CI.Results: The time motion of patient satisfaction study found that 53.1% (224/422) of the study participants were satisfied. As independent predictors, time spent (time motion) waiting to be seen by a health professional (AOR = 0.228, 95% CI = 0.079– 0.661), patient-provider interaction (AOR = 3.72, 95% CI = 2.111– 5.771), perceived privacy (AOR = 2.912, 95% CI = 1.76– 2.78), sex (AOR = 2.499, 95% CI = 1.556– 4.009), and income class (AOR = 0.228, 95% CI = 0.073– 0.707) were associated with outcome variable.Conclusion: The study found low patient satisfaction with ART services, indicating the need for further improvement to enhance patient-centered services with the given time motion. Therefore, further research is needed to assess the intensity and reach of the information through an analysis of pre- and post-intervention that provides a complete picture of conceptualizations of time motion studies.Keywords: ART, patient satisfaction, time motion, Central Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence, molecular detection, and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella isolates within 162 poultry farms in selected urban and peri-urban areas of central Ethiopia. A total of 1515 samples, including cloacal swabs (n = 763), fresh fecal droppings (n = 188), litter (n = 188), feed (n = 188), and water (n = 188), were bacteriologically tested. The molecular detection of some culture-positive isolates was performed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by targeting spy and sdfl genes for Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis, respectively. Risk factors for the occurrence of the bacterial isolates were assessed. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of PCR-confirmed Salmonella isolates was conducted using 12 antibiotics. In this study, it was observed that 50.6% of the farms were positive for Salmonella. The overall sample-level prevalence of Salmonella was 14.4%. Among the analyzed risk factors, the type of production, breed, and sample type demonstrated a statistically significant association (p < 0.05) with the bacteriological prevalence of Salmonella. The PCR test disclosed that 45.5% (15/33) and 23.3% (10/43) of the isolates were positive for genes of Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis, respectively. The antimicrobial susceptibility test disclosed multi-drug resistance to ten of the tested antibiotics that belong to different classes. Substantial isolation of Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis in poultry and on poultry farms, along with the existence of multi-drug resistant isolates, poses an alarming risk of zoonotic and food safety issues. Hence, routine flock testing, farm surveillance, biosecurity intervention, stringent antimicrobial use regulations, and policy support for the sector are highly needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations is to bring the global maternal mortality ratio down to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Therefore, pinpointing the factors that influence maternal near-misses would help expedite the accomplishment of this goal. Studies on these topics are, nevertheless, scarce in the Hadiya zone and throughout Ethiopia as a whole. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the factors that contribute to maternal near-misses among women who are admitted to public hospital maternity wards in the Hadiya zone in central Ethiopia. A facility-based, unmatched case-control study was conducted from February 17 to August 16, 2019. The study covered all secondary and tertiary public healthcare facilities in the Hadiya zone, which includes three district hospitals and one referral hospital offering comprehensive emergency obstetric care services. The study included 279 women in total (70 cases and 209 controls). Mothers who had had a near-miss were the cases, and mothers who had not had one were the controls. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 24 was used to analyze the data, and the multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to control confounders. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to determine statistical significance at a p-value of less than 0.05. Living in a rural area [adjusted OR (AOR)=3.16; 95% CI: 1.62, 6.16], no birth preparedness (AOR=3.50; 95% CI: 1.66, 7.41), ever gave birth by cesarean section (AOR=3.68; 95% CI: 1.63, 8.31), previous history of hypertension (AOR=3.69; 95% CI:1.52, 8.96), and poor knowledge of pregnancy danger signs (AOR=3.15; 95% CI: 1.32, 7.52) were all determinants of maternal near-miss. Thus, strengthened public health and clinical interventions in these arenas need to prioritize rural women and women with a previous history of hypertension.

IntroductionThis research investigates the impact of credit constraints on the yield of smallholder ginger farmers in southern and central Ethiopia. It addresses the importance of understanding the relationship between credit constraints and agricultural productivity in smallholder farming systems.MethodsEmploying a cross-sectional dataset from 343 randomly selected households, we utilized the endogenous switching regression model to address potential sample selection bias.ResultsThe analysis in the first stage showed that livestock holding, marital status, farm size, distance to credit source, and information access are primary determinants influencing the credit constraint status of smallholder ginger farmers. In the second stage, the analysis revealed that family size, farm size, and cooperative membership significantly affected ginger yield. Moreover, the average treatment effect suggests a significant impact of credit constraints on ginger yield, with credit-constrained farmers experiencing a greater positive effect compared to credit-unconstrained farmers. These findings highlight the complex relationships between credit constraints, socioeconomic factors, and agricultural yield in the context of smallholder ginger farming.DiscussionThe implications of this research extend to informing policy decisions and intervention strategies aimed at alleviating credit constraints and enhancing the overall yield and livelihoods of smallholder ginger farmers in the studied regions. Policy recommendations include prioritizing interventions to enhance ginger yield by promoting cooperative membership, improving access to credit sources, fostering livestock ownership, and reducing the distance to credit sources. Additionally, enhancing access to information for effective mitigation of credit constraints is crucial for boosting productivity in smallholder ginger farming.

BackgroundCalf morbidity and mortality are major constraints in Ethiopian cattle production that severely limit available replacement stock. Calf morbidity and mortality reports in Ethiopia mostly focus on market-oriented dairy production systems. A cross-sectional study was undertaken in central Ethiopia with the objectives of estimating the magnitude of calf morbidity and mortality across three production systems and contributing risk factors.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at pastoral, mixed-crop livestock, and dairy farms in central Ethiopia from February 2019 to June 2019 to collect 1-year retrospective and cross-sectional data on calf morbidity and mortality from smallholder farmers using a structured questionnaire.ResultsA total of 293 smallholder farmers were involved in the study. Among the households interviewed, 83% of respondents encountered feed shortages in the year prior to this study. The overall annual calf morbidity prevalence and mortality rate were 6.49% (95% CI: 4.87-8.44) and 10% (95% CI: 8.28-11.93), respectively. Morbidity was higher in Dalocha and Sululta districts in mixed crop-livestock and peri-urban production systems, respectively. Logistic regression analysis of potential risk factors indicated that calf morbidity was associated with the calf and dam body condition score (BCS). Calves with BCS of 3 (medium) were less likely to be morbid (odds ratio [OR]: 0.20 [95% CI: 0.07-0.56]) than calves with BCS of 1 (emaciated), and calves born from dams with a body condition score of 2 (thin) were also at lower risk (OR: 0.25 [95% CI: 0.07-0.95]) than calves born from emaciated dams. The odds of calf mortality in Awash Fentale district were higher (OR: 6.19 [95% CI: 2.09-18.32]) compared to Sululta district.ConclusionsThe study results revealed that the production system and management affect the magnitude of calf morbidity and mortality. We recommend improving water and feed access and resources for livestock owners to reduce calf morbidity and mortality.

Gizachew Beykaso,1 Tilahun Teklehaymanot,2 Andargachew Mulu,3 Nega Berhe,2 Dawit Hailu Alemayehu,3 Mirutse Giday2 1Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia; 2Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; 3Department of Virology, Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Gizachew Beykaso, Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia, Tel +251-912066531, Email gbeykaso88@gmail.comPurpose: In Ethiopia, most people rely heavily on traditional therapeutic plants that have been used for years. The practice of traditional medicines use to treat hepatitis is currently gaining popularity due to the limited availability and affordability of modern drugs. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess the traditional medicinal plants use to treat viral hepatitis among communities of Central region of Ethiopia.Methods: Data was collected from November 2018 to December 2021 in Central Ethiopia. An open-ended semi-structured interview was used among purposively selected herbalists, traditional medicine entrepreneurs, village heads, and patients visiting traditional healers for hepatitis treatments. A 5 mL blood sample was collected from patients who visited a traditional healers’ clinic for hepatitis treatment and tested for HBsAg and HCV-antibody by using ELISA. Among HBsAg-positives, further nucleic acid test for HBV-DNA load was assessed to measure the effects of prescribed medicinal plants.Results: Herbalists cited 24 plants that were used for hepatitis treatment; of which Rumex nepalensis, Vangueria apiculata, and Solanum incanum were the most frequently cited plants. Remedies were commonly prepared by crushing or powdering, mixing them with water, and taken orally. Forty-two individuals were diagnosed and treated as hepatitis patients by herbalists, of which eight of them were HBsAg-positive but no positives for anti-HCV ELISA. At the third and sixth months of viral load assessment among HBsAg-positive, serum HBV-DNA suppression was observed in three individuals treated with different combinations of frequently cited plants.Conclusion: In this study, traditional healers used various plants to treat hepatitis. HBV-DNA suppressive activity was detected in three NAT-positive individuals who were treated by using a mixture of these frequently cited and highest preference-ranked plants. This suggests that these plants have antiviral properties and serve as a basis for more pharmacological research in the quest for new antiviral agents.Keywords: medicinal plants, hepatitis, Central Ethiopia

Proper biosecurity practice is crucial in poultry farming to reduce the risk of diseases. A study was conducted in Adama, Ada’a, and Lume districts, central Ethiopia, to assess the biosecurity measures of commercial poultry farms. A total of 51 farms were randomly selected, and their geographical locations were recorded using GPS devices. The biosecurity level of each farm was assessed using an observation checklist and a biosecurity score. The collected data were analyzed using Stata version 16 for binary data, and QGIS version 3.24.1 was used to map the farms. The results of the study showed that the farms were located close together within 5 km square, 3 km square, and 6 km square areas in Ada’a, Lume, and Adama, respectively. The average distance among the farms was 933.8 meters. The majority of the farms were located within 100 meters of residential areas. Only 58.8% of the farms had adequate space between sheds; 60.8% did not have an adequate drainage system. Ninety-eight percent of the farms obtain chicken from certified breeding enterprises; 92.2% provide underground water for their chickens; 80.4% report frequent cleaning and disinfection of farms; and 82.4% disclose vehicle movement control. Nearly one-third (31.4%) of the farms practice isolation of sick birds but keep them within the same shed where healthy birds are kept. The assessment of biosecurity levels of the study farms revealed that 23.5% (n=12) of the farms had a good biosecurity score, while 76.5% (n=39) had a poor score. The biosecurity scores of the farms showed a statistically significant difference among the study districts (p=0.040), with the Lume district having higher biosecurity scores than Adama and Ada’a districts. The age of the farm owners was significantly associated with the biosecurity score (p=0.003); all farms (100%) owned by individuals aged 20 - 39 had good biosecurity scores, and 80% of those farms owned by individuals aged 40 - 59 had good biosecurity. Farms owned by individuals who have previous chicken-rearing experience had better biosecurity scores than those farms owned by non-experienced owners (p<0.001). Among the farms having professional consultants, 57.7% of them had good biosecurity scores, whereas only 12.0% of farms lacking professional consultants had good biosecurity scores (p=0.015). In conclusion, the study revealed that biosecurity measures were not adequately implemented in poultry farms in central Ethiopia. Farm owners, veterinarians, and livestock authorities must collaborate to implement biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of losses and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxins are a group of structurally related mycotoxins produced by the Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, and Aspergillus nomius species as secondary metabolites. Well-known forms of Aflatoxin are AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2, AFM1, and AFM2. aflatoxin B1 is the most prevalent one. It can be metabolized in the liver and excreted as aflatoxin M1 in milk. Both forms have mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. In Ethiopia, there is limited information on the occurrence and contamination level of aflatoxin in raw and pasteurized milk. The present study was conducted in the Addis Ababa milk shed area to detect and quantify the level of Aflatoxin M1 in raw and pasteurized milk. A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2020 to May 2021 on a total of 114 cow milk samples consisting of 60 raw milk and 54 pasteurized milk samples with the aim of detecting and quantifying the amount of aflatoxin M1 in raw and pasteurized milk in central Ethiopia by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using C18 column with fluorescence detector. AFM1 was detected in 79 (69.3%) of the 114 tested milk samples. The maximum and mean concentrations were 0.893 μg/L and 0.0465 μg/L, respectively. 25.4% of them contain AFM1 above the maximum limit of EU (0.05 μg/L), and 1.8% contained above the maximum limit of CES278 and FDA (0.5 μg/L). 26.7% of the samples from Sebata and 6.7% from Sululta contain above the maximum limit of EU (0.05 μg/L). Higher contamination of AFM1 was detected in pasteurized milk (96.3%) than in raw milk (16.7%). 35.2% of pasteurized and 16% of raw milk contained AFM1 above the maximum limit of EU0.05 μg /L. The study results showed a significant difference in AFM1 occurrence with feed type, storage time, and milk type. The current AFM1 concentration level in raw and pasteurized milk was not safe for human consumption in the study areas. Due to its heat resistance, AFM1 is found in pasteurized milk and has great health effects. Creating awareness of feed management for feed producers and farmers and developing risk mitigation methods are crucial in order to reduce public health threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Evaluation of biosecurity measures remains essential for successful control and prevention of diseases in a country like Ethiopia, where the poultry sector is flourishing. This research was conducted from October 2020 to June 2022 and aimed to assess the level of implementation of biosecurity practices of 226 poultry farms belonging to different scales found in three selected areas of central Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa, Bishoftu and West of Shaggar City. The study showed a very low overall biosecurity practices score compared to the global average. All three study areas had rather similar levels of biosecurity practices, being statistically insignificant. The majority of the external biosecurity components were highly disrupted and far below the global average. Similarly, the internal biosecurity practices were found to be still lower than the global average. Thus, weak and relaxed biosecurity practices were evident among poultry farms in central Ethiopia. Understanding the poor status of the implementation of appropriate biosecurity practices will help to design and develop strategies that safeguard the poultry production sector from the impact of various deadly diseases. The findings emphasize the need for active involvement of all stakeholders in the poultry production value chain towards boosting the productivity of the sector in Ethiopia. The present study aims to assess the level of implementation of biosecurity practices of small-, medium- and large-scale poultry farms in central Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was implemented involving 226 poultry farms (153 small-, 53 medium- and 20 large-scale farms) in three selected areas of central Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa, Bishoftu and West of Shaggar. The results revealed a very low overall biosecurity score of 43.1% for central Ethiopia compared to the global average score of 64.3%. No significant difference (p > 0.05) in the overall biosecurity practices among the three study sites (36.1% for Addis Ababa, 49% for Bishoftu and 34.9% for West of Shaggar) was observed. Six of the eight external biosecurity components with an overall score of 40.7% as compared to the global average of 64.6% were highly disrupted and scored lower values. With regard to internal biosecurity disease management, cleaning and disinfection practices were found to be 52.6% as opposed to the global average of 64%. The poor biosecurity level among poultry farms of central Ethiopia clearly demonstrates the urgent need for the implementation of appropriate biosecurity practices through the active involvement of all stakeholders to combat the impact of various diseases and boost the productivity of the sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence, molecular detection, and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella isolates within 162 poultry farms in selected urban and peri-urban areas of central Ethiopia. A total of 1515 samples, including cloacal swabs (n = 763), fresh fecal droppings (n = 188), litter (n = 188), feed (n = 188), and water (n = 188), were bacteriologically tested. The molecular detection of some culture-positive isolates was performed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by targeting spy and sdfl genes for Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis, respectively. Risk factors for the occurrence of the bacterial isolates were assessed. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of PCR-confirmed Salmonella isolates was conducted using 12 antibiotics. In this study, it was observed that 50.6% of the farms were positive for Salmonella. The overall sample-level prevalence of Salmonella was 14.4%. Among the analyzed risk factors, the type of production, breed, and sample type demonstrated a statistically significant association (p < 0.05) with the bacteriological prevalence of Salmonella. The PCR test disclosed that 45.5% (15/33) and 23.3% (10/43) of the isolates were positive for genes of Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis, respectively. The antimicrobial susceptibility test disclosed multi-drug resistance to ten of the tested antibiotics that belong to different classes. Substantial isolation of Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis in poultry and on poultry farms, along with the existence of multi-drug resistant isolates, poses an alarming risk of zoonotic and food safety issues. Hence, routine flock testing, farm surveillance, biosecurity intervention, stringent antimicrobial use regulations, and policy support for the sector are highly needed.

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of ill health and one of the leading causes of death worldwide, caused by species of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), with Mycobacterium tuberculosis being the dominant pathogen in humans and Mycobacterium bovis in cattle. Zoonotic transmission of TB (zTB) to humans is frequent particularly where TB prevalence is high in cattle. In this study, we explored the prevalence of zTB in central Ethiopia, an area highly affected by bovine TB (bTB) in cattle.MethodA convenient sample of 385 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB, N = 287) and tuberculous lymphadenitis (TBLN, N = 98) were included in this cross-sectional study in central Ethiopia. Sputum and fine needle aspirate (FNA) samples were obtained from patients with PTB and TBLN, respectively, and cultures were performed using BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960. All culture positive samples were subjected to quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays, targeting IS1081, RD9 and RD4 genomic regions for detection of MTBC, M. tuberculosis and M. bovis, respectively.ResultsTwo hundred and fifty-five out of 385 sampled patients were culture positive and all were isolates identified as MTBC by being positive for the IS1081 assay. Among them, 249 (97.6%) samples had also a positive RD9 result (intact RD9 locus) and were consequently classified as M. tuberculosis. The remaining six (2.4%) isolates were RD4 deficient and thereby classified as M. bovis. Five out of these six M. bovis strains originated from PTB patients whereas one was isolated from a TBLN patient. Occupational risk and the widespread consumption of raw animal products were identified as potential sources of M. bovis infection in humans, and the isolation of M. bovis from PTB patients suggests the possibility of human-to-human transmission, particularly in patients with no known contact history with animals.ConclusionThe detected proportion of culture positive cases of 2.4% being M. bovis from this region was higher zTB rate than previously reported for the general population of Ethiopia. Patients with M. bovis infection are more likely to get less efficient TB treatment because M. bovis is inherently resistant to pyrazinamide. MTBC species identification should be performed where M. bovis is common in cattle, especially in patients who have a history of recurrence or treatment failure.

Background: Mothers who attend antenatal care (ANC) late miss the opportunity to receive health information, early interventions, and timely referrals, which leads to problems complicating pregnancy and contributes to maternal mortality. Objective: This study was conducted to assess early initiation of ANC visit and its associated factors in public health facilities at Ambo town administration, Oromiya regional state, Central Ethiopia, 2018. Methods: A total sample of 344 pregnant women who attended their first natal care visit were chosen using a systematic random selection procedure for facility-based cross-sectional research. Data were entered into EpiData Version 3.1. “The EpiData Association” Odense, Denmark (In Danish: EpiData foreningen) and analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 21 - International Business Machines Corporation, (Armonk, New York). Descriptive statistics were applied to describe the magnitude of the variable, and binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors associated with the early initiation of ANC visits. Statistically significant association was declared at a 95% confidence interval and P value (

Abstract Background Timing of postpartum family planning is crucial for maternal and child wellbeing by preventing unintended and closely spaced pregnancies. However, studies are limited on the time to use modern contraceptives in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to fill these gaps by assessing the time to initiate postpartum modern contraceptive and identifying its predictors among pregnant women in Ambo town, central Ethiopia. Methods An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 356 pregnant women in Ambo town, Central Ethiopia. The data were analysed using STATA-16 software. Kaplan–Meier estimates were performed to explain time-to- modern contraceptive use. A Cox-proportional hazard regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors. The adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) with a 95% confidence interval was considered to declare a statistically significant association. Results This study showed that the median survival time to initiate postpartum modern contraceptives was 6 months. In this study, the risk of modern contraceptive use was 2.13 times higher (AHR = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.02–4.45) among younger women, 1.44 times higher (AHR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.09–2.66) among women with no desire for more children, and 2.25 times higher (AHR = 2.25; 95% CI: 1.02–4.95) among nulliparous women. However, it is 57% times lower (AHR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.32–0.94) among pregnant women with current unintended pregnancy. Conclusion and recommendation The median survival time to initiate postpartum modern contraceptive was 6 months. Age of the women, desire for more children, parity and pregnancy status were found to be the significant predictors of time to initiate postpartum modern contraceptive. Therefore health care providers and concerned stakeholders should consider these factors to increase the uptake of the postpartum contraceptive methods.

Abstract Background Calf morbidity and mortality are major constraints in Ethiopian cattle production that severely limit available replacement stock. Calf morbidity and mortality reports in Ethiopia mostly focus on market‐oriented dairy production systems. A cross‐sectional study was undertaken in central Ethiopia with the objectives of estimating the magnitude of calf morbidity and mortality across three production systems and contributing risk factors. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted at pastoral, mixed‐crop livestock, and dairy farms in central Ethiopia from February 2019 to June 2019 to collect 1‐year retrospective and cross‐sectional data on calf morbidity and mortality from smallholder farmers using a structured questionnaire. Results A total of 293 smallholder farmers were involved in the study. Among the households interviewed, 83% of respondents encountered feed shortages in the year prior to this study. The overall annual calf morbidity prevalence and mortality rate were 6.49% (95% CI: 4.87–8.44) and 10% (95% CI: 8.28–11.93), respectively. Morbidity was higher in Dalocha and Sululta districts in mixed crop‐livestock and peri‐urban production systems, respectively. Logistic regression analysis of potential risk factors indicated that calf morbidity was associated with the calf and dam body condition score (BCS). Calves with BCS of 3 (medium) were less likely to be morbid (odds ratio [OR]: 0.20 [95% CI: 0.07–0.56]) than calves with BCS of 1 (emaciated), and calves born from dams with a body condition score of 2 (thin) were also at lower risk (OR: 0.25 [95% CI: 0.07–0.95]) than calves born from emaciated dams. The odds of calf mortality in Awash Fentale district were higher (OR: 6.19 [95% CI: 2.09–18.32]) compared to Sululta district. Conclusions The study results revealed that the production system and management affect the magnitude of calf morbidity and mortality. We recommend improving water and feed access and resources for livestock owners to reduce calf morbidity and mortality.

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is consistently ranked as the most economically significant viral disease and one of the top five livestock diseases in Ethiopia. Although FMD is endemic in Ethiopia, the epidemiology and the farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding FMD were poorly quantified. Thus, a cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to April 2022 to estimate the seroprevalence, identify the FMD serotypes, and assess the farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices on FMD in Addis Ababa city and Sebeta special zone, central Ethiopia. A total of 384 serum samples were collected from cattle and tested using a 3ABC enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In this study, an overall 56% seroprevalence was recorded. Two types of FMD serotypes were detected in which serotype O was the dominant serotype (75.5%) followed by serotype A (45.5%). A significantly higher seroprevalence (P = 0.00) was recorded in Addis Ababa (85%) compared to Sebeta (28.7%). Seropositivity in older and semi-intensively managed cattle was 2.9 (95% CI: 1.36–6.50; P = 0.006) and 2.1 (95% CI: 1.34–3.26; P = 0.001) times higher compared to young and intensively managed cattle, respectively. A survey on knowledge, attitude, and practice of 103 farmers revealed that 90.2% knew of FMD and the majority of them can recognize its clinical pictures. However, 12.7% of farmers who knew FMD didn't practice any prevention methods. Additionally, 70% of the farmers responded that their cattle roamed outside of their farms for communal grazing, watering, breeding purposes, and vaccination which might put them more at risk of FMD. The current study demonstrated that the majority of farmers have gaps in biosecurity practices and vaccination of cattle against FMD. Therefore, educating farmers on FMD prevention measures is necessary for successful disease control programs.

The present study aims to assess the level of implementation of biosecurity practices of small-, medium- and large-scale poultry farms in central Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was implemented involving 226 poultry farms (153 small-, 53 medium- and 20 large-scale farms) in three selected areas of central Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa, Bishoftu and West of Shaggar. The results revealed a very low overall biosecurity score of 43.1% for central Ethiopia compared to the global average score of 64.3%. No significant difference (p > 0.05) in the overall biosecurity practices among the three study sites (36.1% for Addis Ababa, 49% for Bishoftu and 34.9% for West of Shaggar) was observed. Six of the eight external biosecurity components with an overall score of 40.7% as compared to the global average of 64.6% were highly disrupted and scored lower values. With regard to internal biosecurity disease management, cleaning and disinfection practices were found to be 52.6% as opposed to the global average of 64%. The poor biosecurity level among poultry farms of central Ethiopia clearly demonstrates the urgent need for the implementation of appropriate biosecurity practices through the active involvement of all stakeholders to combat the impact of various diseases and boost the productivity of the sector.

This study aimed to assess household dietary diversity and associated factors among residents in major tef growing areas of Central Ethiopia. Data were collected from 240 randomly selected rural households from Minjar Shenkora and Ada’a woredas of Central Ethiopia. The ordered probit model was used to identify the associated factors of explanatory variables on the dependent variable. Only 30% of the total respondents, as evidenced by their consumption of seven or more different food groups during the previous 24 hours, had high dietary diversity. More than 70% of households were found with inadequate dietary diversity. Results further indicated that several factors associated with household dietary diversity, including household size, livestock ownership, credit availability, off-farm activity, and market distance. Therefore, local institutions and regional governments ought to give households access to education so they may increase their understanding of the health and nutritional advantages of a varied diet, as well as promote and encourage the availability of home gardening strategies, expand access to agricultural technologies, and thus diversify rural households’ diets. Market infrastructure should be enhanced to facilitate household access to markets, which could help improve dietary diversity.

Abstract Background Despite numerous efforts to improve the quality of maternal and child health medical services, over 20 million babies are born with low birth weights each year globally. However, factors related to low birth weight like physically demanding work during pregnancy, intimate partner violence, and food insecurity have not been explored well in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of low birth weight and associated factors among neonates born in public Hospitals in North Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from June 15 –to July 15, 2021, in North Shewa public hospitals. A total of 441 mothers and newborn pairs were selected by systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a pretested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire with chart reviewing. Data entry and analysis were done using Epi Data version 3.1 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26 respectively. Binary logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with low birth weight. Adjusted odds ratio with its 95% confidence interval and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered to declare the statistically significant association. Results The prevalence of low-birth-weight was 17.7% (95% CI: 14.3, 21.5). Pregnancy-related complication [AOR = 2.16; 95% CI:(1.12,4.18)], grand-multiparty [AOR = 2.57; 95% CI:(1.12,5.88)], physically demanding work during pregnancy [AOR = 2.19; 95% CI:(1.11,4.33)], midd-upper arm circumference less than 23 cm [AOR = 2.54; 95% CI:(1.26,5.10)], partner violence during pregnancy [AOR = 3.77; 95% CI:(1.81,7.88)], and being member of household with food insecure [AOR = 2.31; 95% CI:(1.12,4.75)] were factors significantly associated with low birth weight. Conclusions This study showed that the magnitude of low birth weight was relatively high. Women with pregnancy-related complications, grand multiparty, physically demanding work during pregnancy, intimate partner violence, mid-upper arm circumference less than 23 cm, and food insecurity should be prioritized for mitigating LBW. Health care professionals should focus on Screening pregnant women for intimate partner violence, physically demanding activities, undernutrition and providing appropriate treatment during all maternal continuum of care might be helpful.

Background: Modern contraceptives have been identified as key strategies to control fertility and improve maternal health. However, it was poorly utilized in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess modern contraceptive utilization and associated factors among married women of reproductive age groups in Holeta town, central Ethiopia, 2021. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from January 01–30, 2021, among 343 women of reproductive age in Holeta town. Pretested structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Both bivariate and a multivariable logistic regression model was used, and statistical significance was determined with a 95% confidence level and a P value of less than 0.05. Result: The overall magnitude of modern contraceptive utilization was 52.5%. The desire for more children [AOR = 0.52, 95% CI: (0.26–0.89)], a history of child death [AOR = 1.54, 95% CI:(1.22–3.01)], religious prohibition [AOR = 0.37, 95% CI (1.01–3.84)], inter-spousal discussion [AOR = 5.95, 95% (1.31–7.01), and history of unintended pregnancy [AOR = 1.71, 95% CI (1.01–2.60)] were significantly associated with the use of modern contraceptive methods. Conclusion and recommendation: In comparison to national goals set to be reached by 2024/25, the rate of current modern contraceptive use is determined to be good. Therefore, program implementers need to address these significant factors and encourage couples to discuss issues related to reproductive health, including family planning.

BackgroundFood security occurs when all people have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that fits their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life at all times. There is limited evidence on this topic and not well studied in Ethiopia.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate food insecurity and hunger status among households (HHs) in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was undertaken from 1 January 2017 to 30 January 2017. A simple random sampling technique was used to enroll 395 HHs for the study. An interviewer-administered, structured, and pretested questionnaire was used to collect data through a face-to-face interview. The household food security and hunger status were assessed by using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and the Household Hunger Scale, respectively. Data were entered and cleaned using Epiata 3.1 and exported to SPSS software version 20 for statistical analysis. Logistic regression was fitted, and an odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a value of p of less than 0.05 were used to identify factors associated with food insecurity.ResultsA total of 377 HHs participated in the study with a response rate of 95.4%. The proportion of households with food insecurity was 32.4%, among which mild, moderate, and severe food insecurity accounted for 10.3, 18.8, and 3.2%, respectively. The mean score of the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale was 1.88 ± 3.5. Hunger occurred among 3.2% of households. The mean score of the Household Hunger Scale was 2.17 ± 1.03. Husband or male cohabitant’s occupation (AOR = 2.68; 95% CI: 1.31–5.48) and wife or female cohabitant’s literacy (AOR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.01– 9.55) were the only factors associated with HH food insecurity.ConclusionHH food insecurity and hunger in Debre Berhan town were unacceptably high, which can hamper achieving national targets for food security, nutrition, and health. Intensified efforts are further needed to accelerate the decline in food insecurity and hunger prevalence. Therefore, interventions need to target self-employed merchants in small businesses and women who are uneducated.

Background: Mothers who attend antenatal care (ANC) late miss the opportunity to receive health information, early interventions, and timely referrals, which leads to problems complicating pregnancy and contributes to maternal mortality. Objective: This study was conducted to assess early initiation of ANC visit and its associated factors in public health facilities at Ambo town administration, Oromiya regional state, Central Ethiopia, 2018. Methods: A total sample of 344 pregnant women who attended their first natal care visit were chosen using a systematic random selection procedure for facility-based cross-sectional research. Data were entered into EpiData Version 3.1. "The EpiData Association" Odense, Denmark (In Danish: EpiData foreningen) and analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 21 - International Business Machines Corporation, (Armonk, New York). Descriptive statistics were applied to describe the magnitude of the variable, and binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors associated with the early initiation of ANC visits. Statistically significant association was declared at a 95% confidence interval and P value (<0.05). Results: The study revealed that only 30.5% of the study respondents started their first ANC timely. Initiation of early ANC booking was affected by factors like having good knowledge of ANC follow-up (Adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.06, 4.78), primigravida (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.20,5.32), planned pregnancy (AOR = 2.86, 95% CI: 1.05, 7.81), partners whose occupation were merchant (AOR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.15, 10.46), know the available service on ANC service (AOR = 3.00, 95% CI: 1.31, 6.88), and having advice from health professionals (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.05, 4.89); all these factors had shown significant association with timing of first ANC. Conclusion: Early initiation of first ANC was relatively low in the study area. Planned pregnancy, number of pregnancies, knowledge of ANC follow-up, partner's occupation, knowing the available service on ANC service, and having advice from health professionals were factors associated with it. To improve the situation, it is important to provide continuous public health education on the importance of early initiation of ANC at public health facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Takele Worku,1 Morka Dandecha,2 Deraje Shegu,1 Abde Aliy,1 Demessa Negessu1 1Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, National Animal Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center, Sebeta, Oromia, Ethiopia; 2Department of Veterinary Laboratory Technology, Ambo University, Ambo, Oromia, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Morka Dandecha, Department of Veterinary Laboratory Technology, Ambo University, Ambo, Oromia, Ethiopia, Tel +251-910309600, Email morkadandecha@gmail.comBackground: Newcastle disease is a major viral disease of poultry. The virus is a major problem for chickens in Ethiopia and there is a scarcity of updated information on the virological and molecular status of confirmation of Newcastle disease outbreak cases in the country.Methods: Newcastle disease outbreaks were investigated from February 2021 to October 2021 in central Ethiopia to isolate and detect the virus by cell culture and reverse transcriptase PCR. A total of 44 pooled tissue specimens were sampled from sick and recently dead chickens showing typical clinical signs of Newcastle disease. Virus isolation were performed using DF-1 cells and detection of the virus was done by real-time PCR.Results: Out of 44 collected tissue samples, 38.63% (17/44) were positive on DF-1 cells. The result shows 17 of the clinically sick and dead chickens were positive for the virus by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Based on the sample type, 54.54% (6/11) of the brain samples, 36.36% (4/11) of the intestines, 54.54% (6/11) of lung and trachea, 9% (1/11) of pooled liver, kidney, heart, and spleen samples were positive. Viruses were isolated in the proportions 37.5% (6/16), 25% (2/8), 50% (2/4), 25% (1/4), 50% (2/4) and 50% (4/8) from Sebeta, Bishoftu, Sululta, Nifas Silk, Kolfe and Yeka, respectively.Conclusion: This study showed that Newcastle disease is a major viral disease causing death of chickens in the study area. Therefore, any control approach should focus on the appropriate characterization of the virus strain causing the outbreak in the study area.Keywords: central Ethiopia, chickens, isolation, Newcastle diseases virus, RT-PCR

Abstract Background Advocating for and promoting contraception use is critical in reducing mother and child morbidity and mortality. Early Implanon discontinuation may result in unwanted pregnancies and induced abortions. Although there has been research in Ethiopia on long-acting reversible contraceptives, there has been none on early Implanon removal among rural women who have used and removed it. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the magnitude of Implanon discontinuation and related characteristics among women who had the Implanon removed in central Ethiopian public health facilities. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among all women of the reproductive age group who had removed Implanon after using it. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 373 women after proportional allocation to each health facility. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from previous studies. Data were entered using EpiInfo and exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine the association between the outcome variable and independent variables. A p-value less than 0.25 was used as a cutoff point to select candidate variables for the final model. Then, a p value less than 0.05, AOR, and a 95% confidence level were used to declare statistical significance. Result A total of 360 participants responded to the questionnaires, making a response rate of 96.5%. In this study, the early discontinuation rate was 42% (95% CI 36.9–47.7). No formal education (AOR = 0.53 [95% CI 0.3–0.94], having medium monthly income (AOR = 3.02 [95% CI 1.38–6.6]), inadequate pre-insertion counseling (AOR = 0.55 [95% CI 0.31–0.98]), lack of appointment for follow up (AOR = 0.16 [95% CI 0.05–0.54]), didn`t satisfy with service provided (AOR = 0.067 [95% CI 0.015–0.29] and developed side effect (AOR) = 4.45 [95% CI 2.37–8.36] were significantly associated with Implanon discontinuation. Conclusion The discontinuation rate of Implanon among those who removed it after using it in this study was high. Lack of formal education, having a medium-income, inadequate pre-insertion counseling, lack of appointments for the follow-up, poor satisfaction, and problems with side effects were the factors associated with early discontinuation rate. Hence, quality family planning service provision is essential to reduce the discontinuation rate.

This study aimed to assess subterranean termite nests in residential and open crop fields in Central Ethiopia: knowledge and perception of farmers on causes and effects. A descriptive research design was used for primary data collection from the selected district of central Ethiopia. Termite nests were counted from each kebele after clustered into local division called Gox. A total of 72 sampling frames with a 1 km2 were used for termite nests count. In addition, 190 household heads were selected at random from each kebele for questionnaires survey. Termite nests were abundant in Warabo (7.251.71 per 1000 m2), but scarce in Warke Walensu Kebele (2.250.50 per 1000 m2). Teff (49.5%) and wheat (32.6%) were the crops most severely affected by termites. The mean annual hectares of land and quintals of teff and wheat damaged per household were higher in Warabo Kebele (p = 0.000) and lowest in Warke Walensu Kebele. The annual economic loss from crops loss due to termite's effect was greater in Warabo Kebele (4722.23 ± 869.67 ETB and 4396.43 ± 852.65 ETB from teff and wheat per household, respectively). Agroecology, deforestation, grazing, and crop type were the factors that determine termite abundance and its impact on farmers' livelihoods. Mound opening and smoking were the traditional management methods used, but there was no government support. Therefore, integrated and effective termite pest management is critical for long-term food security in the study area. • Termite is the major crop pest that significantly affects the livelihood of society in the study area. • The assemblage and distribution of termites are dependent on crop type, ecology, and human activities. • The indigenous management methods used is not effective and require extensive work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundEvery woman has the right to receive quality care during pregnancy. It is proven that antenatal care (ANC) reduces maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The government of Ethiopia is also making intense efforts to increase the coverage of ANC. However, among pregnant women, the levels of satisfaction with the care provided are overlooked, as the percentage of women who complete all ANC visits is below 50. Therefore, this study aims to assess maternal satisfaction with ANC services rendered at public health facilities in the West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among women who were receiving ANC in public health facilities in Central Ethiopia between September 1 and October 15, 2021. A total of 411 women were selected using the systematic random sampling method. The questionnaire was pretested and the data were collected electronically using CSEntry. The collected data were exported to SPSS version 26. The characteristics of the study participants were described using frequency and percentage. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify the factors associated with maternal satisfaction with focused ANC service.ResultThis study revealed that 46.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) (41.7%–51.6%)] of women were satisfied with ANC service. Factors such as the quality of the health institution [adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 5.10, (95% CI: 3.33–7.75)], place of residence [AOR = 2.38, (95% CI: 1.21–4.70)], history of abortion [AOR = 0.19, (95% CI: 0.07–0.49)], and previous mode of delivery [AOR = 0.30, (95% CI: 0.15–0.60)] were significantly associated with women's satisfaction with focused ANC service.ConclusionMore than half of pregnant women who received ANC were dissatisfied with the service they received. This should be a cause for concern, as the level of satisfaction is lower than that of the findings of previous studies conducted in Ethiopia. Institutional variables, interactions with patients, and previous experiences of pregnant women have an impact on the level of satisfaction. Due attention should be paid to primary health and communication of health professionals with pregnant women to improve the levels of satisfaction with focused ANC service.

IntroductionMeasles remain a leading cause of vaccine-preventable infant mortality. In Africa, about 13 million cases and 6,50,000 deaths occur annually, with Sub-Saharan Africa having the highest morbidity and mortality. Ethiopia launched second-dose measles vaccination into the routine immunization program in the second year of life in 2019. However, little has been known about the coverage of the second-dose measles vaccine. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the level of second-dose measles vaccine uptake and associated factors in North Shoa Zone, Central Ethiopia.ObjectiveTo assess second-dose measles vaccination and associated factors among under-five children and to identify reasons for not being vaccinated in urban areas of North Shoa Zone, Central Ethiopia, 2022.MethodA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 February to 15 March 2022. The sample size was 410, and it was allocated proportionally to each kebelle. The study units were selected consecutively. The data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires. Four nurses were used as data collectors. Data were coded manually and entered into Epi-data Version 4.4.2.1. Frequency and cross-tabs were used for data cleaning. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 21 software. Multicollinearity and model goodness-of-fit tests were checked. A multivariable logistic regression model at 95% CI was used to identify factors associated with the dependent variable.ResultThe response rate was 90.7%. The level of second-dose measles vaccination among children in urban areas of North Shoa Zone was 42.5% [95% CI (36.8, 47.3)]. Maternal age of ≤ 25 years [AOR = 9.12: 95% CI (1.97, 42.19)], 26–30 years [AOR = 9.49: 95% CI (2.33, 38.63)], 31–35 years [AOR = 7.87: 95% CI (1.78, 34.79)]; average time mothers had been waiting for vaccination at the health facility [AOR = 3.68: 95% CI (1.33, 10.23)]; awareness about vaccine-preventable diseases [AOR = 4.15: 95% CI (1.53, 11.26)]; and awareness on recommended measles doses [AOR = 17.81: 95% CI (3.91, 81.22)] were identified as factors associated with MCV2 vaccination. The major reason (48.1%) reported by mothers for not vaccinating second-dose measles vaccine was being unaware of the need to return for second-dose measles vaccination.Conclusion and recommendationThe level of second-dose measles vaccination (MCV2) among children in urban areas of the North Shoa Zone was low. Maternal age, average time mothers had been waiting for vaccination at the health facility, awareness about vaccine-preventable diseases, recommended age for the last vaccination, and recommended measles doses were identified as factors associated with MCV2 uptake. The major reason for not vaccinating MCV2 was a lack of information (unaware of the need to return for MCV2, unaware of the need to return for MCV2, and the place and/or time of immunization unknown). Hence, enhancing awareness about vaccine-preventable diseases, shortening the average time for vaccination at the health facility by half an hour, creating an alerting mechanism for MCV2 appointments, and future studies on the effect of healthcare provider-related factors on MCV2 uptake are recommended.

Background. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease and the major cause of cervical cancer, which threatened the lives of several women and remains a critical concern in Africa and around the world. Ethiopia initiates the human papillomavirus vaccines on 3rd December 2018 for the primary time to vaccinate six million girls. Objective. This study assessed knowledge and attitudes toward the human papillomavirus vaccine among parents of daughters aged between 9 and 14 years in the Central Ethiopia Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 619 parents whose daughters were aged between 9 and 14 years old from February 01 to February 30, 2021. A multistage sampling method was employed to select study participants. Data were collected using an interview administered questionnaire adapted from related literature. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were done by using SPSS v. 20.0. Results. A total of 619 parents participated in the current study of whom, only 242 (39.1%) and 249 (40.2%) of the respondents were knowledgeable and had a favorable attitude toward the HPV, respectively. Age (AOR 1.98, 95% CI: 1.07, 3.69), place of residence (AOR 3.6, 95% CI: 1.45, 8.92), and wealth status (AOR 1.89, 95% CI: 1.09, 3.26) was independently associated with the knowledge of parents toward the HPV. Conclusion. Policymakers and other stockholders require more effort to provide a resource to enhance knowledge and attitudes toward the HPV through the mass media and other health education outlets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a disease with impact on dairy productivity, as well as having the potential for zoonotic transmission. Understanding the genetic diversity of the disease agent Mycobacterium bovis is important for identifying its routes of transmission. Here we investigated the level of genetic diversity of M. bovis isolates and assessed the zoonotic potential in risk groups of people working in bTB‐infected dairy farms in central Ethiopia. M. bovis was isolated and spoligotyped from tissue lesions collected from slaughtered cattle as well as from raw milk collected from bTB positive cows in dairy farms from six urban areas of central Ethiopia. From consented dairy farm workers, knowledge and practices related to zoonotic TB transmission, together with demographic and clinical information, was collected through interviews. Sputum or Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) samples were collected from suspected TB cases. Spoligotyping of 55 M. bovis isolates that originated either from cattle tissues with tuberculous lesion or from raw milk revealed seven spoligotype patterns where SB1176 was the most prevalent type (47.3%). Most isolates (89.1%) were of the M. bovis African 2 clonal complex. All sputum and FNA samples from 41 dairy farm workers with symptoms of TB were culture negative for any mycobacteria. Among the 41 TB suspected farm workers, 61% did not know about bTB in cattle and its zoonotic potential, and over two‐third of these workers practiced raw milk consumption. Our spoligotype analysis suggests a wider transmission of a single spoligotype in the study area. The results reported here may be useful in guiding future work to identify the source and direction of bTB transmission and hence design of a control strategy. Isolation of M. bovis from milk, knowledge gap on zoonotic TB and practice of consumption of raw milk in the study population showed potential risk for zoonotic transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background . Despite numerous life-saving measures, neonatal mortality remains high. This research aims to investigate the incidence and predictors of early neonatal mortality among newborns admitted to intensive care units in public hospitals in Hadiya Zone, Ethiopia. Methods . A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 689 neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. Cox proportional hazard regression by STATA was used. Results . This study followed for 3439 person-days found an incidence rate of 16.9 deaths per 1000 person-days. Birth weight [AHR = 4.4, 95% CI; 1.29, 14.94], APGAR score at the fifth minute 4 to 6 [AHR = 0.42, 95% CI; 0.2, 0.87], hypoglycemia [AHR = 8.1, 95% CI; 2.17, 30.43], no treated with oxygen [AHR = 2.6, 95% CI; 1.1, 5.9], and obstetric complications [AHR = 0.41, 95% CI; 0.18, 0.93] predicted early neonatal mortality. Conclusion . The study revealed a high neonatal mortality rate, necessitating increased focus on oxygen treatment for newborns and improved early diagnosis and treatment of obstetric complications., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2024.)

Tesfaye Belachew,1 Eyuel Mulusew,2 Yonas Tolosa,2 Zerihun Asefa,3 Haileleul Negussie,4 Teshale Sori4 1Epidemiology Unit, Asella Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Asella, Oromia State, Ethiopia; 2Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Oromia State, Ethiopia; 3Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Oromia State, Ethiopia; 4Department of Clinical Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Oromia State, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Teshale SoriDepartment of Clinical Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 34, East Shewa Zone, Bishoftu, Oromia State, Ethiopia, Tel +251 911 363-637Email teshalesori2002@yahoo.com; teshale.sori@aau.edu.etPurpose: Salmonellosis is a foodborne zoonoses found worldwide. The main purpose of this study was to isolate and identify Salmonella and assess their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles from smallhold broilers supply chains and slaughterhouses in Bishoftu and Modjo, central Ethiopia.Methods: Four smallhold broiler farms under the auspices of Chico Meat were selected randomly. Feed, water, and water- and feed-trough samples were collected from broiler farms, while cecal contents were collected from slaughtered chicken at Chico Meat slaughterhouse. Conventional bacteriological techniques were used to isolate and identify Salmonella from the samples. Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion was employed to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates.Results: Salmonella was isolated from 131 (24.3%, 95% CI 20.74– 28.15) of the 539 samples tested. Salmonella was found in 43 of the 250 samples collected from Bishoftu (22%, 95% CI 17.02%– 27.65%) and 76 of the 289 samples collected from Modjo (26.29%, 95% CI 21.32%– 31.77%). Salmonella was isolated from 26.46% of the cloacal samples, 21% of the cecal contents, 30.77% of the feed samples, 25% of the water samples, 22.22% of samples from feed troughs, and 20% of samples from water troughs. The highest level of resistance (80.81%) was observed against tetracycline, followed by kanamycin (71.72%), chloramphenicol and amoxicillin (67.68%), sulfamethazole–trimethoprim (61.62%), naldixic acid (63.64%), and streptomycin (59.60%), whereas most of the isolates were susceptible to gentamicin (69.70%). Resistance to more than two drugs was also observed.Conclusion: Salmonella was found in high prevalence in broilers, their feed, and their environment. Moreover, a majority of the isolates were resistant to most antimicrobials used in medical and poultry practices. This has significant implications for public health and antimicrobial resistance.Keywords: antimicrobials, broilers, central Ethiopia, resistance, Salmonella, smallhold farms

Ambaye Kenubih,1 Bedaso Mammo,2 Getachew Terefe,2 Tewodros Fentahun1 1University of Gondar, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Gondar, Ethiopia; 2Addis Ababa University, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Bishoftu, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Ambaye Kenubih Email ambayken@yahoo.comBackground: The study was performed from January 2016 to May 2017 with the aim of identifying the impact of sheep and goat pox in skin quality in selected localities of central Ethiopia.Materials and Methods: A total of 1360 fresh, salted and dried skins were examined and graded. Pox lesion positive skins were examined by PCR to identify the agent.Results: The prevalence of sheep and goat in the study areas was 4.022%. From a total of 86 rejected skins, a large number of skins were in the rejected category (2.78%). There were highly statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) between sheep and goat pox and species and study areas. However, there were no statically significant associations (p > 0.05) between skin size and sheep and pox. Molecular diagnosis of the case revealed that goat pox virus was responsible for the lesion.Conclusion: Goat pox virus is the main cause of skin rejection and the factor that causes downgrading of skin.Keywords: central Ethiopia, sheep and goat pox, skin quality

Background. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease and the major cause of cervical cancer, which threatened the lives of several women and remains a critical concern in Africa and around the world. Ethiopia initiates the human papillomavirus vaccines on 3rd December 2018 for the primary time to vaccinate six million girls. Objective. This study assessed knowledge and attitudes toward the human papillomavirus vaccine among parents of daughters aged between 9 and 14 years in the Central Ethiopia. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 619 parents whose daughters were aged between 9 and 14 years old from February 01 to February 30, 2021. A multistage sampling method was employed to select study participants. Data were collected using an interview administered questionnaire adapted from related literature. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were done by using SPSS v. 20.0. Results. A total of 619 parents participated in the current study of whom, only 242 (39.1%) and 249 (40.2%) of the respondents were knowledgeable and had a favorable attitude toward the HPV, respectively. Age (AOR 1.98, 95% CI: 1.07, 3.69), place of residence (AOR 3.6, 95% CI: 1.45, 8.92), and wealth status (AOR 1.89, 95% CI: 1.09, 3.26) was independently associated with the knowledge of parents toward the HPV. Conclusion. Policymakers and other stockholders require more effort to provide a resource to enhance knowledge and attitudes toward the HPV through the mass media and other health education outlets.

Background: Despite numerous efforts to improve the quality of maternal and child health medical services, over 20 million babies are born with low birth weights each year globally. However, factors related to low birth weight like physically demanding work during pregnancy, intimate partner violence, and food insecurity have not been explored well in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of low birth weight and associated factors among neonates born in public Hospitals in North Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia.Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from June 15 -to July 15, 2021, in North Shewa public hospitals. A total of 441 mothers and newborn pairs were selected by systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a pretested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire with chart reviewing. Data entry and analysis were done using Epi Data version 3.1 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26 respectively. Binary logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with low birth weight. Adjusted odds ratio with its 95% confidence interval and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered to declare the statistically significant association.Results: The prevalence of low-birth-weight was 17.7% (95% CI: 14.3, 21.5). Pregnancy-related complication [AOR = 2.16; 95% CI:(1.12,4.18)], grand-multiparty [AOR = 2.57; 95% CI:(1.12,5.88)], physically demanding work during pregnancy [AOR = 2.19; 95% CI:(1.11,4.33)], midd-upper arm circumference less than 23 cm [AOR = 2.54; 95% CI:(1.26,5.10)], partner violence during pregnancy [AOR = 3.77; 95% CI:(1.81,7.88)], and being member of household with food insecure [AOR = 2.31; 95% CI:(1.12,4.75)] were factors significantly associated with low birth weight.Conclusions: This study showed that the magnitude of low birth weight was relatively high. Women with pregnancy-related complications, grand multiparty, physically demanding work during pregnancy, intimate partner violence, mid-upper arm circumference less than 23 cm, and food insecurity should be prioritized for mitigating LBW. Health care professionals should focus on Screening pregnant women for intimate partner violence, physically demanding activities, undernutrition and providing appropriate treatment during all maternal continuum of care might be helpful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Discontinuation of contraceptives without any change in fertility intention is often associated with unintended pregnancy which ends up with induced abortion and unplanned birth. Despite the Ethiopian government's emphasis on the provision of long-acting contraceptive methods, little attention has been paid to the study of its discontinuation; particularly, no study has been reported in the study area. Thus, this study aimed to assess the discontinuation rate of long-acting reversible contraceptives and associated factors among reproductive-age women in Butajira town, Central Ethiopia, 2020. Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 April to 1 May 2020. A systematic random sampling method was used to select 227 women. Data were collected by a structured and pretested questionnaire. Epi-data (version 4.6.2) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 25) were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to predict the relation between dependent and independent variables. Finally, a significant statistical association was assured using an adjusted odds ratio at a 95% confidence interval and p value < 0.05. Results: This study revealed that the discontinuation rate of long-acting reversible contraceptives was 50 (22.5%; 95% confidence interval: 17.8–27.2). The main reason for discontinuation was facing side effects 26(52%); from these menstrual disruption 19 (73.1%) was the main reason. Time consumed to reach the health facility (adjusted odds ratio: 6.16, 95% confidence interval: 1.46–25.97), desire to have more children (adjusted odds ratio: 5.3, 95% confidence interval: 1.13–24.81), and counseled about the benefit of long-acting reversible contraceptives (adjusted odds ratio: 0.08, 95% confidence interval: 0.02–0.39) were predictors of discontinuation of long-acting reversible contraceptives. Conclusions and Recommendations: This study showed that the discontinuation rate was high when compared to Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey 2016. Routine pre-insertion counseling about the benefits and side effects of long-acting reversible contraceptives by healthcare providers is highly recommended. In addition, we recommend further trials using larger sample sizes on predictors of discontinuation of long-acting reversible contraceptives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic undernutrition among adolescents in developing countries has been identified as a major public health issue. Previous research has found associations between chronic undernutrition and academic performance outcomes in adolescents. There is need for localized research focusing on nutritional status and its association with educational outcomes among adolescents in different areas of Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was to examine whether chronic undernutrition (stunting) in adolescents in Ethiopia was correlated with various school performance outcomes. This study was a school-based cross-sectional study conducted in North Shewa zone, Ethiopia. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The researchers conducted multivariable linear regression analyses to investigate the relationship between stunting and four school performance outcomes, which included grade 8 Ministry exam score, all-subjects average score, English score, and Math score. The prevalence of stunting in this sample was 11%. After adjusting for all other variables in the model, stunting was positively associated with the grade eight Ministry exam score (β = -4.96; 95% [CI - 7.68, -2.25]; p < 0.001). In the multivariate analyses, sex (being female) was significantly associated with the grade eight Ministry exam score (β = -2.08; 95% CI [- 3.81, -0.35]; p = 0.019 ), the all-subjects average score (β = -3.97; 95% CI [-5.51, - 2.43]; p < 0.001), English score (β = -3.72; 95% CI [-5.60, -1.84]; p < 0 .001), and Math score (β = -4.87; 95% CI [-7.02, -2.72]; p < 0.001). Residence (living in a rural area) was significantly associated with all-subjects average score (β = -3.93; 95% CI [- 5.81, -2.06]; p < 0.001), English score (β = -2.65; 95% CI [-4.94, -0.35]; p = 0.024), and Math score (β = -3.86; 95% CI [-6.50, -1.22]; p = 0.004). Maternal education (grade 1-8) was significantly associated with English score (β = 5.46; 95% CI [1.31, 9.62]; p = 0.010) and Math score (β = 4.78; 95% CI [0.03, 9.53]; p = 0.049). These findings indicate that further research focusing on adolescent chronic undernutrition and educational outcomes as well as why chronic undernutrition is associated with certain performance outcomes and not others is needed before definitive conclusions can be made. Positive changes in child growth later in a child’s life may have important implications for cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is a global phenomenon but disproportionately affects smallholder farmers, prompting them to use various coping and adaptation strategies to counter the problem. This study aimed to examine the trends of climate parameters, assess farmers' perception of climate change, and identify the strategies of adaptation measures in central Ethiopia. Climate data were obtained from the National Meteorological Agency. Survey data were collected from 120 randomly selected households in 2017 and complemented with focus group discussions. The Mann–Kendall approach was used to detect climate trends, while a rainfall anomaly was calculated using the rainfall anomaly index. Multinomial logit model was used to examine determinants of farmers' adaptation to the perceived change. In most of the cases, farmers' perceptions were in accordance with climate trend analyses. Farmers used crop diversification, adjustments of planting dates, destocking of livestock, seasonal migration, crop rotation, and climate information services to adapt to climate-related shocks. Empirical results showed that the age and education of the household heads, family size, access to extension services, and farm and nonfarm incomes had a significant association with the adaptation practices farmers took. The existence of strong correlations between the demographic, socio-institutional variables, and the choice of adaptation strategies suggests the need to strengthen local institutions to enhance the adaptation of smallholder farmers to climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shazali Mohammed Awel,1,2 Getachew Mulatu Dilba,3 Bruk Abraha,2 Demeke Zewde,4 Bayeta Senbata Wakjira,4 Abde Aliy4 1Jigjiga University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jigjiga, Ethiopia; 2Haramaya University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia; 3Ambo University, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Department of Veterinary Laboratory Technology, Ambo, Oromia, Ethiopia; 4National Animal Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center, Sebeta, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Getachew Mulatu DilbaAmbo University, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Department of Veterinary Laboratory Technology, P.O. Box:19, Ambo, Oromia, EthiopiaTel +251-912717217Email getachew.mulatu@ambou.edu.etBackground: Foot and mouth disease is a debilitating and highly contagious transboundary disease of cattle that can cause a huge economical loss globally. It is a notifiable disease in Ethiopia, and it is thought to be causing a decrease in cattle productivity and production.Methods: A cross-sectional study and outbreak investigation were performed to estimate seroprevalence, identify associated factors and serotypes of FMDV in dairy cattle around Addis Ababa. A multi-stage random sampling technique was employed for the selection of sampling units for the seroprevalence study. A total of 383 blood samples were collected using plain vacutainer tubes and the obtained sera were tested by 3ABC-Ab ELISA at the NAHDIC lab. Also, from outbreak cases, 20 epithelial tissue samples were collected purposively for the molecular detection of FMDV serotypes.Results: The overall seroprevalence of FMD in dairy cattle was 72.1% (95% CI=67.27– 76.50). The seroprevalence in dairy cattle of Ada Berga, Holeta, and Sululta districts was 97.2%, 71.4%, and 57.6%, respectively. Up on Chi-square analysis, age, body condition, and management system were significantly associated with FMD seroprevalence (p< 0.05). Besides, multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that district, age, body condition, and management were significantly associated with FMD seroprevalence (p< 0.05). The odds of being seropositive to FMD were 6.9 (95% CI=1.8– 24.9; p=0.005) and 2.3 (95% CI=1.2– 4.7; p=0.01) times higher in cattle found in Ada Berga and Holeta Woreda. From outbreak cases, 18 (90.0%) were identified positive for FMDV serotype O.Conclusion: The current study revealed higher seroprevalence was recorded in the study area and associated risk factors identified statically, serotype O of FMDV was identified from outbreak cases. Therefore, it is critical to design and implement feasible control and prevention mechanisms based on the type of circulating virus serotype.Keywords: central Ethiopia, dairy cattle, FMD virus, molecular detection, seroprevalence

BackgroundMenstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) is a much-neglected issue in developing countries, including Ethiopia. Menstruating women and girls are forced into isolation, prevented from movement, dietary restrictions, and can be prevented from participating in daily routine activities. Furthermore, the way almost all previous studies conducted in Ethiopia measured the practice of MHM did not meet standard definition of safe MHM. This study aimed to assess safe management of menstrual hygiene practice and associated factors among female adolescent students in public high schools in central Ethiopia.MethodsA mixed-methods approach was employed in this study. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select 846 study participants. The collected data were entered through EPI INFO version 7 and exported to SPSS version 23 for cleaning and analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to identify the association between MHM and independent variables. Finally, AOR, 95% CI, and p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The qualitative data was analyzed by ATLAS.ti in order to extract the main themes and categories. Direct quotations were presented with a thick description of the findings.ResultsThe safe management of menstrual hygiene was 28.20%. Living with parents (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI:1.11–5.68), living with relatives (AOR = 7.41, 95% CI:2.55–21.54), having a merchant mother (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI:1.14–2.9), having a mother who has private work (AOR = 4.56, 95% CI:1.31–5.90), having a farmer father (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI:1.1–2.31), rural resident (AOR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.17–2.21) and realizing the absence of container for storing sanitary napkins in the toilet of the school latrine (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.1–0.94) were factors associated with MHM. Findings from a qualitative study were discussed under four themes to explore barriers to menstrual hygiene management, and three themes emerged as enablers to menstrual hygiene management.ConclusionsThe safe management of menstrual hygiene was low among adolescent girls. People with whom adolescent girls live, the occupational status of mother and father, residence, the availability of a container to dispose of sanitary napkins in school toilets were factors associated with menstrual hygiene management. Behavioral change communications must be provided to female students about menstrual hygiene.

Yohannes Tilahun,1 Elias Teferi Bala,2 Gizachew Abdissa Bulto,3 Ephrem Yohannes Roga3 1Disease Prevention and Control Division, Addis Ababa Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; 2Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia; 3Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Gizachew Abdissa Bulto Email gizachab@yahoo.comBackground: Ethiopia is one of the Sub-Saharan African countries with an increasingly risky sexual practice and mostly affected by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic. Dual protection is an important preventive approach which can prevent both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the dual contraceptive utilization and associated factors among reproductive-age women on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) in central Ethiopia.Methods: An-institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 311 women on ART at public hospitals of West Shewa Zone from June to September 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A pretested structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The data were entered into Epi data version 3.1 and exported to IBM SPSS statistical software version 25 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed. Odds ratio along with 95% confidence interval was computed to ascertain the association.Results: The prevalence of dual contraceptive utilization among women on ART was 21.4% (95% CI: 16.8– 25.9). Age of respondents between 15 and 24 years [AOR=8.35, (95% CI: 3.12– 17.78)], living in urban [AOR=2.59, 95% CI: 1.15– 4.22], separated women [AOR=2.28, 95% CI (1.26– 5.04)], had post-diagnosis counselling on family planning [AOR=5.33, 95% CI: 1.52– 18.68], disclosed HIV status [AOR=5.98, 95% CI: 1.63– 21.93], freely discuss with their husband [AOR=4.22, 95% CI, 1.84– 12.36], have no fertility desire [AOR=2.46, (95% CI: 1.34– 6.44)] were significantly associated with dual contraceptive utilization.Conclusion and Recommendation: The overall magnitude of dual contraceptive utilization among women on ART was found to be low. Factors like age, residence, marital status, post-diagnosis counselling, disclosure of HIV status, and free discussion with husband were significantly associated with dual contraceptive method utilization. Therefore, it is necessary to expand the range of strategies and tools available to married and single women’s for protecting themselves from being infected with other strains and pregnancy. The concerned stakeholders also should emphatically consider those identified factors for intervention.Keywords: dual contraceptives, utilization, HIV, central Ethiopia

Background: Advocating for and promoting contraception use is critical in reducing mother and child morbidity and mortality. Early Implanon discontinuation may result in unwanted pregnancies and induced abortions. Although there has been research in Ethiopia on long-acting reversible contraceptives, there has been none on early Implanon removal among rural women who have used and removed it. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the magnitude of Implanon discontinuation and related characteristics among women who had the Implanon removed in central Ethiopian public health facilities.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among all women of the reproductive age group who had removed Implanon after using it. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 373 women after proportional allocation to each health facility. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from previous studies. Data were entered using EpiInfo and exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine the association between the outcome variable and independent variables. A p-value less than 0.25 was used as a cutoff point to select candidate variables for the final model. Then, a p value less than 0.05, AOR, and a 95% confidence level were used to declare statistical significance.Result: A total of 360 participants responded to the questionnaires, making a response rate of 96.5%. In this study, the early discontinuation rate was 42% (95% CI 36.9-47.7). No formal education (AOR = 0.53 [95% CI 0.3-0.94], having medium monthly income (AOR = 3.02 [95% CI 1.38-6.6]), inadequate pre-insertion counseling (AOR = 0.55 [95% CI 0.31-0.98]), lack of appointment for follow up (AOR = 0.16 [95% CI 0.05-0.54]), didn`t satisfy with service provided (AOR = 0.067 [95% CI 0.015-0.29] and developed side effect (AOR) = 4.45 [95% CI 2.37-8.36] were significantly associated with Implanon discontinuation.Conclusion: The discontinuation rate of Implanon among those who removed it after using it in this study was high. Lack of formal education, having a medium-income, inadequate pre-insertion counseling, lack of appointments for the follow-up, poor satisfaction, and problems with side effects were the factors associated with early discontinuation rate. Hence, quality family planning service provision is essential to reduce the discontinuation rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]