Modalities
- Mobilise community health workers and caregivers to raise awareness about malnutrition screening and its importance for child health.
- Train and empower mothers to screen the child using MUAC and examining for bilateral pitting oedema.
- Refer children showing signs of moderate or severe wasting to health facilities for treatment and support.
- Ensure accurate reporting and track referrals to ensure timely follow–up and care for malnourished children.
Conditions and considerations
- Consistent training and supervision is necessary for community health workers and caregivers to ensure accuracy and consistency in screening and referrals.
- Involve the community to ensure ownership and participation in screening programs.
- Ensure screening sites are easily accessible to all households, consider home visits for remote and underserved areas.
- Establish robust referral pathways for identified cases to access treatment and follow up support. Provide transportation to treatment centre if needed.
- Identify and try to resolve barriers to reach the health centres for malnourished children.