Prevalence of Malaria Infection among Students Attending Federal University Otuoke Health Centre, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

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Abstract

Malaria is a common disease with public health challenges affecting people particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. A study of prevalence of malaria infection was carried out between April and July 2017 among students attending Federal University Otuoke Health Centre in Otuoke, Bayelsa state, Nigeria, to provide epidemiological data on the status of malaria infection for effective management programme. A total of 200 students were examined for malaria parasite, 111 (55.5%) males and 89 (44.5%) females, using the blood film staining method. The result of the study showed that 160 (80%) were infected. Males (90.99%) were more infected than females (66.29%). Students aged 16-20 years were more infected (100%) than those in other age groups. The result was statistically analyzed using chi-square method. Infection among students was due to Plasmodium falciparum as identified by microscopy. Malaria, as a public health concern it is, need prompt diagnosis and early treatment which will significantly reduce disease transmission and prevent death among students. Baseline information from this study will aid in planning and implementation of malaria control programmes in the area and state at large by governments, their agencies and individuals. There is also the need for the promotion of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs), intermittent preventive treatment and increased public awareness and campaigns for malaria prevention and treatment in the area. The need for improved accessibility to health facilities and government support is imperative to achieve the goal of malaria elimination in the area and Nigeria at large.

Keywords: Malaria, Prevalence; Students, infection, Otuoke, Bayelsa.

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