The overall objective of the project is to reduce the incidence and prevalence of Chagas disease in the department of Chiquimula. The specific objectives we propose are (1) to carry out sweeps with rapid diagnostic tests in population centers with high infestation and colonization rates with subsequent serological confirmation. (2) create a specific circuit for clinical assessment and electrocardiogram in patients confirmed with Chagas disease (3) establish algorithm to ensure therapeutic adherence through periodic monitoring during treatment and mitigation of side effects.
The interventions take place on the rural population of the municipality of Olopa. All are planned jointly with the Guatemalan Ministry of Health, health areas and local health centers, aligned with their health programs and complementary to their activities.
There is a need to create predetermined circuits and assign specific personnel to ensure quality care for people affected by Chagas disease.
The activities we carry out are (1) serological sweeps with rapid diagnostic tests in villages or hamlets identified by local institutions as risk areas with a high rate of infestation and / or colonization with serological controls and extraction of serologies in positive reagents (2) clinical assessment and follow-up of patients confirmed serologically (3) initial and annual electrocardiogram (4) performing echocardiography to patients with clinical or suggestive data of heart disease and referral to cardiology if necessary (5) administration of treatment under supervision by referring personnel to ensure therapeutic adherence and reduction of side effects.
The expected results are (1) to diagnose Chagas disease in populations with risk factors not yet assessed to establish its prevalence, (2) circuits established for initial assessment and electrocardiogram of confirmed persons, (3) administration of treatment and follow-up during it to ensure a complete therapeutic regimen and the mitigation of side effects.
Partnership with: Ministerio de Salud Guatemalteco- Área de salud Chiquimula Centro de salud Olopa. Equipo de vectores área de salud.
