Prevalence of malaria and associated factors among febrile patients in selected healthcare facilities of Jawi District, northwest Ethiopia

Despite the ongoing control and elimination efforts, malaria continues to impose a substantial burden on healthcare systems and communities in Ethiopia. Understanding its epidemiology and identifying associated factors are essential for targeted interventions. The present study thus aimed to assess malaria prevalence and associated factors among febrile patients in selected healthcare facilities of Jawi District, northwest Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to November 2023 in Jawi District, northwest Ethiopia. The study involved 420 participants who visited government-owned healthcare facilities seeking treatment for febrile illnesses. Socio-demographic information and malaria-related data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Additionally, blood samples were obtained from study participants and examined for malaria parasites using microscopy. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to identify the major explanatory factors associated with malaria. The study revealed a malaria prevalence of 41.2% (95% CI: 0.365–0.459), and Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant species (64.8%) detected. Socio-demographic factors such as lack of formal education (AOR = 2.452; 95% CI: 2.427–11.345, p = 0.047), and proximity of residence to mosquito breeding sites (AOR = 43.224; 95% CI: 3.215–25.381, p = 0.015) appeared as significant factors for malaria. Furthermore, awareness gaps regarding malaria transmission in the community (AOR = 1.384; 95% CI: 1.117–2.009, p = 0.044) were found to influence malaria vulnerability. Housing characteristics and inconsistent utilization of preventive measures were also identified as contributors to malaria prevalence among study participants. The findings of the present study revealed that the rate of malaria infection in the study area was high. The transmission has a multifactorial nature, including socio-demographic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Strengthening education and awareness programs, improving housing conditions, and ensuring sustainable access to malaria diagnosis, treatment, and preventive services are essential components of effective malaria control in the study area.