Prevalence of malaria in relation to insecticide treated-nets usage in a rural and urban settlement in Benue State

Abstract

Malaria prevalence in Obi and Makurdi Local Government Areas of Benue State was investigated from September, 2013 to January, 2014, by a random cross sectional selection of households. Finger prick method was used for sample collection and analyzed using the rapid diagnostic technique. Structured questionnaires were administered to obtain data on knowledge, attitude and perception on ITNs use. The data were analyzed using chi-square. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Out of the 412 persons examined, the prevalence of malaria was 15.5%. A higher prevalence of 21.7% was recorded among rural dwellers than 9.0% for urban dwellers. The difference was statistically significant (x² _Cal= 12.65, x² _tab =3.84, p<0.05). Males had a higher malaria prevalence rate of 15.6% than females 15.5%. Age-group 0-5 years had the highest prevalence of malaria of 42.9%, while age-group 21-25 years had the least rate of 7.7%. This was statistically significant. Consistent users of ITNs had the lowest malaria prevalence rate of 9.7%, compared to inconsistent and non-users with 21.1% and 14.6% respectively. The difference was not statistically significant (x² _Cal= 4.64, x² _tab =7.81, p>0.05). Ignorance had the highest frequency 142 (34.5%) for non-usage of ITNs. The study showed that malaria prevalence depends on the type of location as rural dwellers were more infected, also on consistent use of ITNs. The government should ensure strict monitoring of ITN usage in both urban and rural areas to follow up free distribution campaign programs.

Keywords: malaria, ITN, rural, urban, consistent