Project description: Cholera outbreaks caused by Vibrio cholerae are endemic in Kenya and the East Africa region accounting for nearly 10% of all cases reported from sub-Saharan Africa and the case-fatality rates remain above 2.5%, which is unacceptably high. Cholera is spread through consumption of fecallycontaminated water or food. Investigating the relationship between cholera occurrence in terms of dominant hotspots and various environmental and human factors associated with the hotspots is important for managing cases and preventing future outbreaks. Whereas WASH interventions have been recommended by various studies as a control strategy for Cholera, the critical intervention pathways that have the most significant public health impact are not known. We propose to study hotspots identified from previous outbreaks and from ongoing outbreaks in Kenya using drone technology to map areas for immediate sampling, exposure risks and most critical transmission pathways surveillance. The project has opportunities for the following positions: Reports to: Study Manager Job Description: The field worker will report directly to the study manager. S/He will be responsible for administering informed consent to biological parents or caretaker to children and also adults before enrolling them into the study, collecting stool samples for cholera testing, collecting environmental samples for cholera testing and administering questionnaires using tablets as stipulated in the protocol. The Field worker must ensure that the data collection in the field is conducted in the highest standards possible as per the study protocol. S/he must be flexible and work within the existing structure, in a professional and ethical manner with competence, accountability and integrity Essential Requirements:
Minimum of a Diploma in any biomedical Sciences
Good English and Swahili, both spoken and written
Must be able to write brief reports and keep records.
Must be computer literate
Must be a team player
Desired qualities:
Experience in collection of stool and environmental samples also an added advantage.
Experience in household survey is an added advantage.
Specific Tasks and Responsibilities.
The Field worker responsibilities shall include and not be limited to the following:
Consent study participants
Collect stool samples as per the protocol
Complete study forms and books accurately and completely
Ensure proper labelling and tracking of samples and accuracy before leaving the households and Clinics.
Communicate with the Study Manager on any issues from the field
Work closely with community volunteers and clinic staff
Ensure that there are requisite supplies and procured in good time
Attend study field briefs and share progress of work
Be courteous, respectful, proactive, conscientious, punctual, honest and hardworking
Work closely with the Team leaders.
Must be flexible to work during weekends and Public holidays.
Be responsible for the study supplies and equipment’s while in the field.
Perform any other duties assigned or delegated by the Study Manager. Terms of Employment:1-year renewable contract as per KEMRI scheme of service and a Probation period for the first 3 months.
