Factors associated with severe malaria-related mortality among hospitalized children under five years of age in Eastern Province of Rwanda: a cross-sectional study using hospital records from 2017 to 2021.

Abstract

Malaria remains a significant concern for children under five in malaria-endemic regions. Rwanda's successful efforts in malaria treatment reduced nationwide cases, but high mortality persists in the Eastern and Southern provinces. This study aimed to investigate the clinical features of severe malaria and to identify the death risk factors among under-five children in Eastern province Hospitals. This cross-sectional study assessed severe malaria-related mortality and associated factors among children aged under five years in hospitals of Eastern Province, Rwanda, from 2017 to 2021. Data were collected from hospital records, and descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used for data analysis. Factors associated with severe malaria-related mortality included coma (aOR: 10, 95% CI: 1.2-82.5, p = 0.03), Vomiting (aOR: 5.2, 95% CI: 1.0-26.0, p = 0.04), four or more days of illness before consultation (aOR: 30.9, 95% CI: 8.7-109.9, p < 0.01). On the other hand, a low parasitaemia level (aOR: 0.01, 95% CI: 0.0-0.1, p < 0.01). In conclusion, coma, vomiting, and healthcare delays increased mortality in children with severe malaria. Prompt treatment, proper assessments, protocol adherence, and caregiver education on early symptom recognition are crucial for improving outcomes.