Project Abstract

Abstract
Malaria remains a significant public health concern, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services is limited. School-aged children are a vulnerable population group with a high risk of malaria infection. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of malaria parasite infections among school-aged children in rural areas, with a focus on identifying risk factors and implications for public health interventions. A cross-sectional study was conducted in several rural communities, involving school-aged children between the ages of 6 and 14 years. A total of 500 children were randomly selected to participate in the study. Malaria parasite infections were detected using both rapid diagnostic tests and microscopic examination of blood smears. Additionally, a structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, bed net usage, and previous history of malaria infection. The results indicated a high prevalence of malaria parasite infections among school-aged children in the rural areas, with an overall infection rate of 35%. Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant species identified in the study population. Factors such as low socio-economic status, lack of access to mosquito bed nets, and proximity to mosquito breeding sites were significantly associated with an increased risk of malaria infection. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to combat malaria among school-aged children in rural areas. Public health strategies should focus on improving access to preventive measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets, implementing regular screening and treatment programs in schools, and promoting community awareness about malaria prevention and control measures. Furthermore, efforts should be made to address the socio-economic determinants of malaria transmission in these settings. In conclusion, the prevalence of malaria parasite infections among school-aged children in rural areas is a pressing public health issue that requires urgent attention. By understanding the risk factors and implications of malaria infection in this vulnerable population group, effective interventions can be implemented to reduce the burden of the disease and improve the overall health outcomes of children in rural communities.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

Malaria is a major public health problem and cause of much suffering and premature death in the poorer areas of tropical Africa, Asia and Latin America particularly among young children (Cheesbrough, 2010). Children under five years of age are one of the most vulnerable groups affected by malaria. There was an estimated 438,000 malaria deaths around the world in 2015 of which approximately 69% were in children under five years of age. In high transmission areas, partial immunity to the disease is acquired during childhood. In such settings, the majority of malarial disease and particularly severe disease with rapid progression to death occurs in young children without acquired immunity. Severe anaemia, hypoglycaemia and cerebral malaria are features of malaria more commonly seen in children than in adults (WHO 2016).

Malaria is an infection caused by parasites of the Plasmodium species. There are four major species of the parasite that infect man. These are P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale and P. malariae. P. Knowlesi  is rare.