Insecticide-treated net distribution in Western Kenya: impacts related to COVID-19 and health worker strikes

We examined the impact of coronavirus disease (COVID) mitigation, supply and distribution interruptions on the delivery of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) in Western Kenya. The median monthly distribution of LLINs declined during COVID mitigation strategies (March-July 2020) and during the health worker strikes (December 2020-February 2021). Recovery periods followed initial declines, indicative of a 'catching up' on missed routine distribution. Mass community campaigns were delayed by 10 months. These observations offer encouragement for routine net distribution resilience, but complete interruptions of planned mass distributions require alternate strategies during pandemics.

Automated summary

This study examined the impact of COVID mitigation measures and supply interruptions on the delivery of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets in Western Kenya. The findings showed a decline in monthly distribution and a delay in mass community campaigns.