Assessment of malaria infection and associated risk factors among human populations in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria remains a global public health disease especially in rural communities where agriculture is the major occupation. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of malaria among human populations in some parts of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State. A longitudinal survey was conducted in four selected districts in the study locality from January to December, 2021. Microscopy was used to examine malaria parasites. Structured questionnaire was administered to gather information from participants on possession and utilization of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs). A total of 814 people were examined for malaria parasites across four districts in Qua’an-Pan LGA. Out of which, 635 (78%) people were found to be positive of the parasites. Female participants recorded higher malaria parasites infection 301 (78.2%) than the male participants 334 (77.9%) with significant difference (P<0.05). Malaria parasites infection was significantly (P<0.05) higher among students (80.1%) than other occupational groups. Parasites infection was higher (88.6%) among the ages ≥ 31. Early dry season (81.8%) recorded the highest parasites infection rates with the least during late dry season (71.3%), but was not significant (P>0.05). Majority of the respondents didn’t have ITNs and usage was low among those that possess the ITNs. In conclusion, malaria remains a public health concern in the study area with high prevalence of 78% and low ITN ownership and usage. Hence, there is a crucial need for increased health education in the study area about malaria infection and the importance of owning and using ITNs.