Prevalence and Distribution of Falciparum malaria in Orita Obele and Gbogi Communities of Akure, South-western Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is a devastating parasitic disease across the world particularly in Nigeria. This study investigates the prevalence and distribution of falciparum malaria in Orita Obele and Gbogi communities of Akure, Southwestern Nigeria. Standard parasitological method of thick and thin smear was employed and the malaria parasites were identified through microscopy. Overall prevalence of 171 (57.0%) was recorded. Sex related prevalence showed that more males were infected with 79 (60.8%) than females with 98 (57.6%). The differences in prevalence between males and females was significant (P<0.05). Individuals within the age group of less than 10 had the highest rate of infection 38 (76.0%) while individuals within the age group of 51 to 60 had the least rate of infection 10 (37.0). Furthermore, Orita Obele had a higher malaria prevalence (58.6%) compared to Gbogi (53.9%). Conclusively, there is need for sustainable interventions and awareness campaign among the residents of Orita Obele and Gbogi in order to enhance reduction of malaria parasite to the desired zero level.

Keywords

• Parasitic diseases, Malaria parasites, Prevalence, Plasmodium falciparum, Urban communities