Prevalence of Malaria in Children Aged 5-17 years Attending Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Akamili, Nnewi between November 2024 and July 2025

Abstract

Background: Malaria in children remains a major public health concern, particularly in tropical Africa where it disproportionately affects children under five and pregnant women. Objectives: This study determined the prevalence of malaria infection among children aged 5–17 years attending Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, between November 2024 and July 2025. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study recruited 156 children (71 males, 85 females) using random sampling. A structured questionnaire was administered to caregivers. Blood samples were collected in EDTA bottles, and malaria parasites were detected using microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). Results: Out of the 156 samples screened by Microscopy, 19 (12.2%) were positive. Out of the 71 males, 8 (5.1%) were positive while out of the 85 females, 11 (7.1%) were positive. The prevalent rates differed according to the gender, age group, location of residence, occupation and level of education of the parents or care givers even though the differences were not statistically significant(P>0.05). Out of 156 samples screened by RDT, 25 were positive giving a prevalent rate of 16%, whereas. out of 85 females screened 15 were positive giving a prevalence of 9.6% as 71 males against 6.4% obtained from 71 males. Conclusion: Malaria prevalence was relatively high in the study population, with females more affected than males. Strengthening preventive measures such as environmental sanitation, consistent use of insecticide-treated nets, and prompt treatment is essential to reduce malaria burden and complications in children.