A cross-sectional study of the prevalence, density, and risk factors associated with malaria transmission in urban communities of Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria

Background: Malaria is a severe global public health challenge that causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study was designed to determine the prevalence, parasite density, and risk factors associated with malaria infection transmission among residents of two urban communities of Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was carried out on 300 participants. Blood samples were obtained. Thick and thin blood films were prepared and viewed using the standard parasitological technique of microscopy. Moreover, data on sociodemographic and environmental variables were obtained using a pre-tested standard questionnaire. Results: Of the 300 participants examined, a total of 165 (55.0%) were found positive for Plasmodium falciparumwith a mean (S.D) parasite density of 1814.70 (1829.117) parasite/mu L of blood. The prevalence and parasitedensity of malaria infection vary significantly (P < 0.05) with age group. Children <5 years old were more likelyto have malaria infection and high parasite densities than adults (p < 0.05). Similarly, in relation to gender, malessignificantly (P < 0.05) had a higher prevalence (60.2%) and mean (S.D) parasite density of malaria infection[2157.73 (1659.570) parasite/mu L of blood] compared to females. Additionally, those without formal educationhad the highest prevalence (73.0%) and mean (S.D) parasite density of infection [2626.96 (2442.195) parasite/mu L of blood]. The bivariate logistic regression analysis shows that age group 6-10 (Crude Odds Ratio, COR 0.066,95% CI: 0.007 -0.635), presence of streams/rivers (COR 0.225, 95% CI: 0.103 -0.492), distance from streams/rivers within <= 1 km (COR 0.283, 95% CI: 0.122 -0.654) and travel to rural area (COR 4.689, 95% CI:2.430 -9.049) were the significant risk factors. Conclusions: Malaria infection is prevalent in the study area and was greatly influenced by traveling activities from the rural areas to urban centers and vice versa. Multifaceted and integrated control strategy should be adopted. Health education on mosquito prevention and chemoprophylaxis before and during travel to rural areas are essential.

Automated summary

The study conducted in urban communities of Ibadan, Nigeria found a high prevalence of malaria infection among residents, influenced by factors such as age and gender. Traveling activities between rural and urban areas were identified as significant risk factors for malaria transmission.