Baseline Survey on Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Related Neglected Tropical Diseases

This report presents the results of a baseline comparative study conducted in two districts, Manni, a high intervention district (HID), and Bogandé, a low intervention district (LID). Both districts are located in Gnagna Province in Burkina Faso. The baseline survey interviewed 1,296 caregivers of children aged one to nine years. It was conducted to obtain a better understanding of the situation in these two districts with regard to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and related neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). This made it possible to collect useful baseline information for 1) better orientation and prioritizing of future integrated WASH-NTD investments and interventions and 2) the integration of these interventions with existing NTD programs in the region.

Specifically, the baseline survey of mothers or caregivers of children aged one to nine years allowed researchers to assess their current behavior and hygiene practices regarding the reduction of trachoma, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminths. It was also possible to identify points of access and sources of drinking water and improved sanitation. Finally, the survey described the various information channels and assessed households’ level of exposure to information related to promoting appropriate hygiene practices to reduce or suppress these three major infectious diseases.