There are specific environmental risks within homes and communities that contribute to measles outbreaks. Some cultural attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors may also contribute to outbreaks.
In this assignment, you will:
- Create a 3-panel double-sided brochure for your target group ie the population you chose for this project. (Sub-Saharan region Africa)
The brochure must be designed specifically for your intended audience and must incorporate the following:
- Explain environmental and cultural factors within the home and community that contribute to an outbreak of measles.
- Summarize environmental and cultural factors that increase an individual’s risk of contracting measles.
- Describe precautions to be implemented in the home if a household member has become infected with measles.
- Provide any other information necessary to assist your audience in understanding the issue, getting vaccinated, and getting more information if they so desire.
SLP Assignment Expectations
Length: 3-panel double-sided brochure (i.e., include content on the front and back) with color, text, and graphics.
Required readings
Read at least two of the following articles to learn more about the PEN-3 model as a framework for planning programs that consider cultural and environmental influences on health behaviors.
Iwelunmor, J., Idris, O., Adelakun, A., & Airhihenbuwa, C. O. (2010). Child malaria treatment decisions by mothers of children less than five years of age attending an outpatient clinic in south-west Nigeria: An application of the PEN-3 cultural model. Malaria Journal,9(1), 354-354. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1475-2875-9-354
Iwelunmor, J., Newsome, V., & Airhihenbuwa, C. O. (2014). Framing the impact of culture on health: A systematic review of the PEN-3 cultural model and its application in public health research and interventions. Ethnicity & Health, 19(1), 20-46. doi:10.1080/13557858.2013.857768
Yick, A. G., & Oomen-Early, J. (2009). Using the PEN-3 model to plan culturally competent domestic violence intervention and prevention services in Chinese-American and immigrant communities. Health Education, 109(2), 125-139. doi:
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Measles outbreaks are a global concern that affects individuals, families, and communities. Environmental and cultural factors are significant contributors to the incidence and spread of measles. This assignment aims to create a 3-panel double-sided brochure targeting the Sub-Saharan region of Africa. The brochure will provide information on environmental and cultural factors contributing to measles outbreaks, summarize the risk factors of contracting measles, describe precautions to be implemented in the home if a household member has become infected with the infection and provide any other relevant information to the target audience.
Answer:
The Sub-Saharan region of Africa is prone to measles outbreaks due to various environmental and cultural factors. Poor living conditions, including overcrowding, lack of proper sanitation and hygiene, and inadequate ventilation, can lead to the rapid spread of the infection. Additionally, the lack of access to clean water and adequate nutrition weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to the infection.
Cultural beliefs and practices in the region can also contribute to measles outbreaks. Traditional healers and cultural beliefs in the efficacy of herbal remedies for treating measles can increase the risk of complications. Some populations may also resist vaccination due to religious or political reasons, leading to low immunization rates.
To reduce the risk of contracting measles, individuals and families should practice good hygiene, as well as seek vaccination against measles. Vaccination programs should be expanded to reach all individuals living in Sub-Saharan Africa. In case a family member has been infected with measles, immediate isolation, maintaining proper hygiene, and consulting a medical professional are essential precautions to be taken.
The brochure also encourages individuals to seek medical advice if they exhibit any symptoms of measles, such as a cough, fever, or rash. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent severe complications and reduce the spread of the infection.
Conclusion:
Measles outbreaks can be prevented or minimized by understanding and addressing the environmental and cultural factors contributing to their spread. This brochure has provided a comprehensive view of the significance of these factors, summarized the risk factors of contracting measles, described precautions to be implemented, and provided other relevant information for the Sub-Saharan region of Africa. Vaccination, proper hygiene, early diagnosis, and treatment are essential measures that individuals and communities can take to combat the spread of measles.
