Studying Hygiene and Sanitary Attitudes and Behaviors in the Rural Communities of the Region of Adjara of Georgia

Abstract

Despite the impressive developments in the sector of school education of Georgia, many schools (even rehabilitated ones) are still in a desperate need for fresh running water and adequate toilet facilities. There is a strong correlation between the incidence of diarrheal diseases of presumed infectious origin and compromised WASH conditions. The diarrheal disease incidence is highest in the Autonomous Republic of Adjara of Georgia (3.24 times the national average). A qualitative research aimed at revealing the public knowledge and attitudes regarding handwashing standards and patterns has been conducted in different rural municipalities of Adjara by administering 12 focus group discussions with 72 adults and 72 children of school age. The content and ethnographic analysis was conducted through a "three-element coding framework". Our findings underscore the lack/shortage of resources/supplies in school WASH units (soap and water) as well as the presence of inadequate sanitation facilities. In addition, hygiene practices have been heavily influenced by the knowledge and attitudes towards