Prevalence of Malaria Infection among Inmates of Makurdi and Gboko Prisons, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of malaria infection among prison inmates in Makurdi and Gboko, Nigeria. Using structurally designed questionnaires, Blood samples of 144 inmates within the age range of 21years and 60 years plus, was screened for malaria. Blood samples were collected among inmates and were investigated for malaria infection using Malaria Rapid Test Kit (mRDT) kits, thick and thin film methods.  Out of 144 inmates screened, (93.06%) were males and (6.94%) were females and the overall prevalence of malaria infection obtained from the study was 15.28%. Malaria infection was higher among inmates within the age range of 21-30 years.  The prevalence of the infection with respect to their months of stay in prison showed that inmates with short period of stay were infected most with this disease. In relation to gender, males had the higher prevalence than the females. There was no statistical relationship between the prevalence of Malaria infection (P>0.05) with respect to age groups, occupation and duration of stay. On the other hand, there was statistical relationship between the prevalence of Malaria infection (P<0.05) with respect to gender. The used of insecticides treated nets and the incorporation of basic health education into the curricular of the inmates were recommended.