Formative evaluation of a community-based approach to reduce the incidence of Strep A infections and acute rheumatic fever

We explore the acceptability of a novel, outreached-based approach to improve primary and primordial prevention of Strep A skin sores, sore throats and acute rheumatic fever in remote Aboriginal communities. A comprehensive prevention program delivered by trained Aboriginal Community Workers was evaluated using approximately fortnightly household surveys about health and housing and clinical records.

Citation:
Wyber R, Kelly A, Lee AM, Mungatopi V, Kerrigan V, Babui S, et al. Formative evaluation of a community-based approach to reduce the incidence of Strep A infections and acute rheumatic fever. Aust New Zealand J Public Health. 2021.

Keywords:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health; Group A streptococcus; community health workers; environmental health; rheumatic fever

Abstract:
We explore the acceptability of a novel, outreached-based approach to improve primary and primordial prevention of Strep A skin sores, sore throats and acute rheumatic fever in remote Aboriginal communities. A comprehensive prevention program delivered by trained Aboriginal Community Workers was evaluated using approximately fortnightly household surveys about health and housing and clinical records.