Prevalence of Malaria and Co-infection with Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV) in Selected Areas of Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of malaria and its co-infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) was investigated in Owena, Idanre Local Government Area and State Hospital Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. A total of 150 blood samples (Total number at, Owena = 88 and the State Hospital = 62) were collected and examined respectively for the presence of malaria using thick and thin blood smear; and also for the presence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) using Abbott Determine kit and Stat Pak kit. The age and sex related prevalence of malaria infection in Owena shows that the overall prevalence was 54.5%. Malaria was found to be high among females (54.7%) than in males (54.2%). The age and sex prevalence of malaria infection in State Hospital shows that the overall prevalence was (54.8%). Malaria was found to be higher in females (56.8%) than in males (52.0%). Co-infection of malaria with HIV by sex in Owena shows that the infection was generally low (2.3%) but prevalence was higher in females (3.1%) than in males (0.0%). The sex distribution of malaria with HIV as co-infection in State Hospital shows that the infection was generally low (4.8%) but higher in females (5.4%) than in males (4.0%). The reasons for the high prevalence of malaria with HIV co-infection were discussed. This study suggested the need for more enlightenment campaign and public awareness of malaria and HIV infection.