Prevalence of malaria parasitemia among patients attending Uke General Hospital, Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

Malaria persists as major public health concern in Nigeria. Malaria, an infectious disease spread by mosquitoes, is caused by plasmodium protist. Nigeria accounts for 27% of the global malaria burden and 32% of malaria deaths globally (FRN, 2022). Malaria poses a risk of about 97% to the Nigerian population and contributes about 11% of maternal mortality. This study sought to establish the prevalence of malaria parasitemia among patients attending Uke General Hospital, Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. the study was structured around three key objectives: To determine the malaria prevention practices among the patients visiting the hospital, to identify some socio-cultural factors that can be included in the education of people for effective control programme and to compare the prevalence of malaria parasite infection caused by plasmodium falciparum among patients attending Uke General Hospital Karu Local Government Nasarawa State. A quantitative research design was adopted, Using rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) kits, 120 patients of different ages and genders were screened for malaria. Analysis of collected Capillary blood samples showed that 65 individuals were positive, giving prevalence rate of 54.2%. Children aged 1-10years showed the highest prevalence, and males were generally more affected than females. Although light microscopy is regarded as the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, RDTs were used in this study due to their speed, ease of use, and availability in the hospital setting. These findings demonstrate the ongoing burden of malaria in the study area and the need to reinforce prevention and control strategies. There should be intensive public awareness campaigns on malaria transmission, symptoms, prevention, and the importance of seeking timely treatment. These campaigns should be targeted especially at the uneducated population through the use of local languages and visual aids.