Bitegela, Elizabeth Edward2019-11-142020-01-072019-11-142020-01-072005Bitegela, E. E (2005) An investigation of availability, access and use of health related information of cholera in affected communities: a case study of Kinondoni Municipality, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaamhttp://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/2727Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class mark (THS EAF RA644.T34B57)The study examined factors that influence access to and use of cholera information in preventing persistence cholera outbreaks in Kinondoni Municipality, Dar es Salaam region, and obstacles to successful information dissemination in affected communities and how this can be improved. The study was conducted in five wards and two health centres, namely Manzese, Mabibo, Kigogo, Tandale and Mburahati wards; Magomeni and Mwananyamal health Centres in Kinondoni District. A combination of methods were used to collect data for this survey including structured standardized questionnaire with both open and closed ended questions, complimented by face-to-face interviews and observations. A total of 67 respondents participated in this study. Major findings of this study revealed that even though information is a key factor in planning, policy formulation and implementation and decision-making, yet information is not effectively utilized in preventing cholera outbreaks. Furthermore water shortages, ignorance, poor sanitation, poor hygiene and settlement planning and weak infrastructure also contribute significantly to persistent cholera outbreaks in Kinondoni District. Similarly, while newspapers, television and radio are major dissemination channels yet due to low individual income most respondents do not utilize these channels to access information about cholera. Community meetings, friends and neighbours and home visits are the methods commonly used to disseminate cholera information to affected communities. Furthermore, health related information is only provided to affected communities when there is a cholera outbreak. The study recommends the following: City authorities should give the problem of water shortages top priority in their plans, Health education should be taught on a regular basis to influence behaviour change and encourage boiling of drinking water. Health officers should visit affected communities regularly instead of waiting until there is a cholera outbreak. Health care providers should use appropriate and affordable channels including community meetings to disseminate cholera-related information among affected communities. Finally areas for future research are recommended.enPublic healthCholeraTanzaniaThesis