MALARIA PREVALENCE AND MOSQUITO ABUNDANCE IN NNEWI NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA
Main Article Content
Abstract
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium species transmitted through bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. This study assessed malaria prevalence and mosquito vector abundance in Nnewi North Local Government Area (LGA), Anambra State, from November 2024 to August 2025. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 545 participants across the four quarters of Nnewi: Uruagu, Nnewichi, Umudim, and Otolo. Blood films were microscopically examined for malaria parasites, while mosquitoes were collected using Pyrethrum Knockdown Collection, Human Bait and larval dipping methods. The overall malaria prevalence was 6.1% (n = 33), with Umudim recording the highest, 10.4%and Otolo the lowest, 1.8%. Males 18(7.0%) were slightly more infected than females 15(5.3%). The 15–24yearsage group showed the highest (11.3%) prevalence, and no infections were detected among individuals ≥65 years. Students 15(14.4%) were the most affected occupational group. Prevalence peaked in June 4(14.3%), though observed differences were not statistically significant (P >0.05). A total of 308 adult mosquitoes were collected:194(63.0%) Culex quinquefasciatus, 106(34.4%) Aedes aegypti, and 8(2.6%) Anopheles gambiae. Larval surveys showed similar dominance. Although malaria prevalence was relatively low, Anopheles mosquito presence signifies ongoing transmission. There is therefore need for sustained control measures and improved environmental sanitation.
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