Entomological and parasitological indices of malaria transmission in Tungan-Goro and Gbaiko communities in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

In Nigeria, malaria is highly prevalent, most especially in Minna, Niger State. This study was carried out to determine the entomological and parasitological indices of malaria transmission in two communities, namely, Tungangoro and Gbaiko in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. Collection of the mosquito was carried out using the Pyrethrum Spray Catch (PSC). The population’s indoors were sampled by spreading on the floor for mosquito collection, white sheet (5m x 5m) with the edge held to the wall by masking tape. The room was sprayed with pyrethroid insecticide (Baygon) and then left for 10 minutes, with every opening shut. Out of the total number (742) of mosquitoes collected, Anopheles sp. had a relative abundance of 456 (61.50%) with 273 (59.90%) females and 183 (40.10%) males. Culex sp. had a relative abundance of 286 (38.50%) out of which 155 (54.20%) were females and 131 (45.80%) were males. At both study locations Anopheles sp. were more in number compared to Culex sp. Out of the 365 female Anopheles mosquitoes dissected for parity, 211 (67.00%) were parous, while 104 (33.00%) were nulliparous. Out of 445 blood samples examined for malaria parasite 315 (70.80%) were positive while 130 (29.20%) were negative (p<0.05). This study provides useful baseline data for designing strategies for the control of mosquito-borne diseases in Minna and its environs.

Keywords: pyrethroid, diversity, abundance, Anopheles sp., Cutex sp