Levels of adherence to coartem© in the routine treatment of uncomplicated malaria in children aged below five years, in kenya.

Background: This study sought to determine the level of adherence to Coartem© in the routine treatment of uncomplicated malaria among children under the age of five years in Nyando district, Kenya.

Methods: Seventy-three children below the age of five years with microscopically confirmed uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria and prescribed Coartem(®) during the normal outpatient department hours were included into the study on 27(th) of April to 15(th) of May 2009. Adherence was assessed through a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire; pill count and blister pack recovery.