| dc.description.abstract | Globally, Malaria remains a significant public health concern, particularly in tropical and
subtropical regions. According to the World Malaria Report 2020 published by the World Health
Organization (WHO), an estimated 229 million cases of malaria occurred worldwide in 2019.
Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for approximately 94% of all malaria cases and deaths, with
young children being particularly vulnerable. Several socio-demographic and environmental
factors play a pivotal role in influencing the prevalence of malaria among children under 5 years
old. Poverty stands as a significant contributor, as regions with elevated poverty rates often
experience a higher incidence of malaria. Limited access to healthcare services, proper housing,
and effective mosquito control measures in impoverished areas exacerbate the issue. Insufficient
healthcare facilities and diagnostic tools also contribute, causing delayed or inadequate treatment
that can worsen the impact of malaria on young children.
Mosquito breeding sites constitute another critical factor. Stagnant water bodies and inadequate
sanitation create ideal conditions for increased mosquito breeding, subsequently heightening the
risk of malaria transmission. Furthermore, housing conditions are essential, as inadequate
protection against mosquitoes in substandard housing exposes children to more mosquito bites,
especially during the peak activity hours of the Anopheles mosquitoes, which transmit malaria.
Climate and geography significantly influence malaria transmission. Warm and humid
environments provide an optimal habitat for mosquito breeding and the survival of the malaria
parasite, leading to higher transmission rates in such areas. Vector control measures, including
the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying, are vital interventions for
reducing both mosquito bites and the transmission of malaria. Socioeconomic status is also
intertwined with malaria prevalence. Lower socioeconomic status can limit access to preventive
measures and healthcare services, making children more vulnerable to the disease. This
interaction between poverty and health access amplifies the impact of malaria on children in
impoverished areas. Zooming in on the context of Africa, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, it
bears the heaviest burden of malaria cases globally. Within this region, East Africa has faced
significant challenges. Countries such as Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda have reported
notably high prevalence rates of malaria among children under 5. This alarming trend
underscores the urgency of addressing the specific factors that contribute to malaria transmission
and ensuring the implementation of effective prevention and control strategies in these areas.
Sub-Saharan Africa bears the heaviest burden of malaria cases globally. Within this region, East
Africa has been significantly affected. Countries like Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda
have reported high malaria prevalence rates among children under 5. What is the prevalence and
epidemiology of malaria in Nigeria? Nigeria suffers the world's greatest malaria burden, with
approximately 51 million cases and 207,000 deaths reported annually (approximately 30 % of
the total malaria burden in Africa), while 97 % of the total population (approximately 173
million) is at risk of infection
Uganda is one of the countries in East Africa where malaria is endemic. The disease is a leading
cause of illness and death, particularly among children. The Ugandan government, along with
international partners, has been implementing strategies to combat malaria, including the
distribution of long lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets(LLINs) and access to effective
antimalarial treatments. Malaria was endemic in over 95% Uganda, with a parasite prevalence of
42% among children under 5 years of age. Over 98% of infections are caused by Plasmodium
falciparum.
This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of malaria and associated factors in children
under five years in Gulu district, Northern Uganda. The data was primary data from health
centers in Gulu district. | en_US |
