Prevalence of malaria infection in selected communities in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria.

The scourge of malaria infection continues to persist despite all efforts to curtail the effect of the disease, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria, where the effect of the disease is felt most. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of malaria infection in communities in the Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. The study involved 810 participants who were randomly recruited from eight (8) communities. Blood samples were collected, and malaria parasites were diagnosed using a thick and thin blood film. A chi-square test was performed to ascertain any significant differences observed in the infection status. The results showed that the malaria prevalence recorded in this study was 28.9% (p<0.05) and varied significantly (p<0.05) across the communities in the study area. Infection was higher in Gaji, with a malaria prevalence of 58 (46.03%), followed by Ndinka, 45 (36%), while the least infection was recorded in Biyak, 7(9.09%). Males had a significantly (p<0.05) higher infection rate of 137(34.68%) than females, with 97(23.37%) malaria prevalence. Similarly, malaria prevalence varied significantly (p<0.05) across age groups, with the highest infection being recorded in subjects aged ≥ 60 years 19(70.37%), and the lowest infection was recorded in subjects aged 35-44 years with a malaria prevalence of 11(8.66%). In conclusion, this study revealed that malaria prevalence remains high in the study area and appears to be maintained by suitable breeding sites during dry periods in Wase. Thus, communities need to be educated on protective and preventive measures to reduce the level of infection.