PREVALENCE OF MALARIA IN ANIOCHA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Malaria continues to pose a major public health challenge in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa, contributing significantly to the global burden of disease. Despite ongoing control efforts and extensive research, transmission remains complex, driven by interactions among mosquito vectors and environmental factors. This study evaluated malaria prevalence in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 600 consenting participants. Blood samples were collected and examined using standard microscopic methods, including thin and thick blood film techniques, to determine both malaria prevalence and parasite density. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The results showed significant variation in malaria prevalence across the study locations (p < 0.05). In Ogwashi-Uku, a prevalence rate of 19.5% was recorded, with an average parasite density of 7,600 parasites/µL. In Nsukwa, prevalence rates of 28.0% for Plasmodium falciparum and 11.0% for Plasmodium ovale were observed, with corresponding parasite densities of 8,100 parasites/µL and 1,300 parasites/µL. Aboh recorded the highest prevalence, with 41.0% for P. falciparum and 7.0% for P. ovale, alongside parasite densities of 9,700 parasites/µL and 500 parasites/µL, respectively. Species distribution varied by location: only P. falciparum (39 cases) was detected in Ogwashi-Uku, while both P. falciparum (56 cases) and P. ovale (22 cases) were identified in Nsukwa. Similarly, Aboh recorded 82 cases of P. falciparum and 14 cases of P. ovale. Malaria prevalence also varied by age and gender. In overall, Plasmodium falciparum was the dominant species across all study sites, whereas P. ovale was detected only in Nsukwa and Aboh. The findings suggest that vector abundance plays a crucial role in sustaining malaria transmission within the study area. Consequently, achieving long-term reductions in malaria prevalence will depend on integrated control approaches that incorporate vector surveillance, resistance management, improved access to healthcare, and strengthened community-based environmental and behavioral interventions.