Epidemiology and Clinical Profile of Complicated Malaria in Children under 5 Years at Kiryandongo General Hospital, Uganda

Abstract

Malaria remains a significant public health concern, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where children under the age of five are disproportionately affected. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and clinical profile of complicated malaria among children under five years at Kiryandongo General Hospital in Uganda. Data were collected through an interviewer-administered questionnaire from 192 children admitted with malaria. Results showed that 37.5% of children had complicated malaria, with the highest prevalence observed in the 2-3 years age group (25%). Males were more affected (61%), and convulsions, hyperparasitemia, and hypoglycemia were common symptoms, particularly among children aged two to three years. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and improved healthcare resources to combat malaria, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children in endemic regions. Keywords: Malaria, Complicated Malaria, Children, Prevalence, Clinical Profile, Kiryandongo General Hospital, Uganda.