The Presence of Malaria Infection among Pregnant Women: Insights from Jinja Regional Referral Hospital

Abstract

Malaria, transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes and caused by plasmodium, manifests in symptoms like fever, chills, vomiting, and anemia, posing heightened risks to pregnant women and young children. This study investigated malaria prevalence and contributing factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital from January to June 2019, employing a retrospective cross-sectional approach utilizing existing records. Throughout the study period, the prevalence of malaria infection remained consistently low at 20%. Socioeconomic status emerged as a significant factor affecting malaria treatment, with lower economic standing correlating with higher incidence. While 80% of participants exhibited knowledge about malaria-related complications and preventive measures such as using insecticide-treated mosquito nets and eliminating stagnant water, 20% lacked this crucial awareness. Notably, a disparity was observed in malaria cases between well-educated and less educated attendees at the health unit, with fewer instances among the more educated individuals. Maternal complications primarily centered around anemia, while occurrences of low birth weight and stillbirth were relatively uncommon, attributed to prompt diagnosis and treatment. The study highlighted fluctuating malaria prevalence, indicating the need for extensive awareness campaigns, particularly concerning intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy (IPT1 and IPT2). Collaborative efforts involving the community, government, hospitals, and even spouses are crucial to disseminate crucial information. Encouraging the consistent use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets during pregnancy should be emphasized, although this aspect wasn't specifically addressed in the study. Keywords: Malaria infection, Maternal mortality, Pregnant women, Antenatal care.