Determination of the Prevalence of Malaria Infection and the Influence of Overuse and Misuse of Insecticide Treated Nets in Omoku Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is an endemic disease caused by Plasmodium, which is transmitted through the female anopheles mosquitoes. It is a devastating disease that threatens productivity and the economy of endemic countries like Nigeria. The study aimed at the prevalence rate of malaria infection regarding the overuse and misuse of insecticide-treated nets. A total number of eighty-two (82) children were recruited for this study, with a questionnaire administered to them and blood samples were taken for examination of the parasites using thick film and rapid diagnostic test methods. The result showed that the prevalence of malaria infection among the children aged 1-17 years, as diagnosed via microscopy and Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) were 12.2% and 8.5% respectively, there was no statistically significant association of malaria infection with the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), family education on the use of ITNs and other malaria control and prevention, residing in bushy, slump, and water-logged areas. Staying outdoors at dawn/dusk. This study also determined the association of malaria infection with some clinical data and risk factors. However, there was no statistically significant association of malaria infection with a history of symptoms (headache, fever, and muscle pain), previous malaria treatment, self-medication, and family history of the infection. From this study, it can be concluded that there was no association of the malaria infection with some clinical data and risk factor. However, proper sanitation and a healthy lifestyle should be sustained to limit the effect and spread of Malaria infection.