Malaria among the trans human pastoralists along the Gurin-Cameroun International Border, Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria parasite infection is one of the global commonly ignored infections. Nigeria has both the highest case and mortality rate of malaria infection. This study examined the prevalence and intensity of malaria among transhuman pastoralists along the Gurin- Cameroun international border, Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State after major ITN distribution in the study area. Five nomadic settlements: Jaringel; Wuro-nelbi Waziri, Wuro-nelbi Marafa, Wuro-Kosau and Mbodere were assessed using thin film slides blood samples for the presence of malaria parasites. The total malaria prevalence in the sample areas was 24.23%. The study showed that Wuro-Kosau had the highest malaria prevalence of 35%, and the lowest prevalence was found in Wuro-nelbi Marafa which had a 20% malaria prevalence. Also, the highest malaria prevalence of 57% was recorded in the children within the age distribution of (1-10) years, while the lowest prevalence of 5.4% was observed in the 41-50 age distribution. The study also established a link (x² = 4.471, p = 0.023) between malaria prevalence and gender in the study population. The higher malaria prevalence occurred mostly in males (62.4%) compared to females (37.6%). Malaria intensity was also higher among males (52.7%) compared to females (46.3%) (x² = 20.78, p = 0.011). This called for a proactive measure to ensure a malaria-free society. There is a need to intensify ITN campaign and the importance of using ITNs. Proper monitoring of the use of ITNs should be put in place.