PLACENTAL MALARIA IN SOME PARTS OF ANAMBRA SOUTH-EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

In the study conducted to determine the prevalence of placental malaria burden in Anambra State, Nigeria, venous and placenta blood samples were collected from 254 pregnant women screened in a cross-sectional hospital – based survey. Malaria parasitaemia was diagnosed by microscopy while anaemia was defined as haemoglobin concentration <12g/l. Malaria species were typed using thin film parasite morphology and count. Of the 254 placental blood sample tested 131 (51.6%) samples were positive for malaria parasite. Age was significantly associated with malaria infection (P=0.0001). The intensity of the malaria infection showed a very strong association with marital status, educational level, fever and anaemia (P=0.0001, respectively). Age, educational status, fever and anaemia were significantly associated with placental malaria. Advocacy and pubic enlightenment on control measures and adequate coverage into hinter land on expectant mother to ensure adherence, acceptance and compliance to control measure.