An assessment of the effect of rainfall on malaria prevalence among pregnant women in Lira city: [a] case study [of] Ober Parish
Abstract
Malaria remains a significant public health concern, particularly among vulnerable populations such as pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of rainfall on malaria prevalence among pregnant women in Lira District, considering both the direct and indirect pathways through which rainfall influences malaria transmission. Assessing the effect of rainfall on pregnant women in Lira City was essential for understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that this climatic factor presents. While excessive rainfall can pose physical, emotional, and social challenges, proactive measures and community resilience efforts can help mitigate these risks. It is imperative for policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to work together to create a safe and supportive environment for pregnant women, regardless of the weather conditions they face. The trend of rainfall in Lira City affected the prevalence of malaria among pregnant women by influencing mosquito breeding, health care access and effectiveness of preventive measures. Monitoring and responding to these seasonal variations is crucial to mitigate the impact of malaria on pregnant women. My findings suggested a multifaceted relationship between rainfall and malaria prevalence among pregnant women in Lira city. Increased rainfall creates conducive breeding environments for Anopheles mosquitoes, leading to elevated malaria transmission rates. Furthermore, heavy rainfall events may hinder access to healthcare facilities, impacting timely diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, socio-economic factors, such as housing quality and personal protective measures, mediate the impact of rainfall on malaria risk.