AN ASSESSMENT OF MALARIA PARASITE INFECTIONS AMONG INDIVIDUALS SEEKING MEDICAL CARE IN SELECTED HEALTHCARE FACILITIES IN KADUNA METROPOLIS, KADUNA, NIGERIA

Abstract

Malaria continues to be a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with Kaduna State among the regions with endemic transmission. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and demographic distribution of malaria parasite infections among individuals seeking medical care in selected healthcare facilities in Kaduna Metropolis. A cross-sectional, facility-based study was conducted across selected public and private health facilities in Kaduna State. Of the 464 (100%) examined for the presence of malaria parasites, 267 (57.5%) were infected. Females have a much higher prevalence rate, 169 (67.3%), than males, 98 (46.0%). Hospital C reported the highest number of infected cases, 88 (33.0%), followed by Hospital B with 69 (25.8%), while Hospital A and Hospital D had lower numbers of infected cases, 54 (20.2%) and 56 (21.0%), respectively (P>0.05). Ages 11–15 and 16–20 years had the highest prevalence rates of malaria parasites, 35 (63.6%) and 35 (67.3%), respectively (P< 0.05). The highest infection was recorded in June, with 69 (70.8%), followed by October, September, July, and August, with 34 (59.7%), 38 (58.5%), 44 (57.1%), and 32 (56.1%), respectively. Prevalence of Malaria Parasite in relation to the Risk factors revealed that a higher prevalence among participants without formal education (63.3%) as compared to those with formal education (36.7%). Occupation showed that self – employed (29.6%) and unemployed (26.6%) had the highest numbers of infected participants; based on place of residence, it showed that rural residents account for nearly two – thirds (64.4%) of all the malaria cases, while urban residents make up only (35.6%). The prevalence of malaria parasites was also analyzed by use of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs). The results showed that more malaria infection occurred among Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) non – users (57.7%) than Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) users (42.3%). Malaria remains a significant burden among healthcare-seeking individuals in Kaduna State, particularly among young children and rural residents.