Factors Influencing Malaria Incidence among Rural Farming Households: Evidence from Kogi Agricultural Zones

Abstract

The high incidence of malaria epidemic among rural households in developing countries is not in doubt. The study assessed factors influencing malaria incidence in rural Kogi State, Nigeria. This study aimed to identify farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics in relation to malaria occurrence and determinants. Structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 240 randomly selected registered farming households in the State’s Agricultural Zones B and D. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result of the study revealed good knowledge on malaria prevention, causes and symptoms among the farming households. Despite their level of knowledge, malaria was prevalent and significantly influenced by closeness to bush and dumps, closeness to stagnant water, and distance to health centres with the coefficient of 1.341, 1.520 and 1.741 at 5%, 5% and 1% level of significance respectively. Household with access to health campaign and subsequent use of insecticide treated mosquito nets had low probability of malaria infection. These predictors, however, need further work to validate reliability.