The Incidence of Maternal Malaria among Antenatal Attendees in Primary Health Center, Masaka, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Background: In Nigeria, more than 90% of the total population of the country is at risk of malaria infection and about 50% of the population suffers from at least one episode of the disease annually. Malaria in pregnant women is associated with adverse maternal and fetal complications which can result to death if left untreated.

Aim: The aim of this study is to ascertain the incidence of maternal malaria among antenatal attendees in a Primary Health Center, Masaka, Nasarawa State.

Methods: One hundred and fifty (150) pregnant women were recruited for this study. Structured questionnaire was administered; 2 mls of peripheral blood was collected. Thick and thin blood smears were prepared to check for the Plasmodium parasites.

Results: An incidence rate of 44.67% was obtained from this study. One hundred and fifty (150) pregnant women were examined for malaria parasites, out of which 67 (44.67%) were positive for malaria infection while 83 (55.33%) were negative for malaria infection. A 75% incidence rate of malaria was recorded in the Primigravidae women while 35% incidence rate was recorded in the multigravidae. The highest prevalence of 56.86% was recorded, and the least prevalence was in the second trimester 37.5%. Pregnant women within the age group of 17-22 years recorded the highest prevalence rate of 69.44%. The Chi-square analysis used in this study, reveals that there was no significant relationship (P>0.05) between malaria in relation to gestation, gravid status, age and occupation.

Conclusion: The incidence of Malaria infection is high among the antenatal attendees in Primary Health Centers Masaka. Routine screening is highly recommended and there should be more enlightenment on best practices to prevent malaria during pregnancy.