Malaria Prevention Research Articles

Prevalence and Mortality of Malaria among Children under Five in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review

Malaria had been a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly affecting children under five years of age, who accounted for over two-thirds of all malaria-related deaths globally. This review examined the prevalence and mortality rates of malaria among this vulnerable population, highlighting key determinants such as socioeconomic status, maternal education, environmental conditions, and access to healthcare. Recent data indicated that approximately 24.2% of children under five in the region are affected by malaria, with socioeconomic disparities exacerbating the risk. The review also discussed the effectiveness of various preventive interventions, including insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), and seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC), emphasizing the need for multifaceted approaches that address both biological and social determinants of health. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to synthesize current research findings and provide insights into the challenges and opportunities for reducing malaria incidence and mortality in this demographic. Ultimately, addressing the complex interplay of risk factors is essential for developing targeted strategies to mitigate the impact of malaria on young children in sub-Saharan Africa. Keywords: Malaria, Children under five, Prevalence, Mortality, Sub-Saharan Africa.

Effectiveness of Preventive Measures against Malaria in Children

Malaria was a significant global health challenge, particularly affecting children under five years of age in endemic regions. This review examined the effectiveness of various preventive measures against malaria in children, including insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), preventive chemotherapy, intermittent preventive treatment in infants (IPTi), and health education interventions. A systematic literature search across multiple databases to collate and analyze studies assessing the impact of these preventive measures on malaria outcomes in children was carried out and utilized in compiling this review paper. The findings indicated that a combination of these strategies can substantially reduce malaria incidence and associated morbidity in children. ITNs have been shown to provide a protective barrier against mosquito bites, while IPTi effectively reduces malaria cases in infants through timely administration of antimalarial drugs during immunization visits. Additionally, health education interventions have proven effective in increasing awareness and promoting the use of preventive measures among caregivers and communities. Despite the progress made, challenges such as insecticide resistance and access to healthcare services remain critical barriers to achieving optimal malaria control. Keywords: Malaria prevention, Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), Preventive chemotherapy, Intermittent preventive treatment (IPT), Childhood malaria

Socioeconomic and Environmental Risk Factors for Malaria in Young Children: A Review

Malaria remained a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, disproportionately affecting children under five years of age. Understanding the socioeconomic and environmental risk factors associated with malaria in this vulnerable population was crucial for developing targeted interventions to reduce transmission and improve health outcomes. This review examined the complex interplay between socioeconomic status, housing conditions, environmental factors, and malaria risk among young children. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to synthesize current research findings on the topic. Key socioeconomic determinants included household income, maternal education, and access to preventive measures. Children from low-income families were at higher risk due to limited resources for malaria prevention and treatment, as well as poorer living conditions that facilitate mosquito breeding. Environmental factors such as proximity to stagnant water bodies, inadequate sanitation, and climate variability further exacerbated malaria transmission. The review highlighted the need for multifaceted approaches that address both biological and social determinants of health to effectively reduce the burden of malaria among children under five in sub-Saharan Africa. Keywords: Malaria, Socioeconomic factors, Environmental factors, young children, Sub-Saharan Africa

Post-war status of water supply, sanitation, hygiene and related reported diseases in Tigray, Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study

Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) associated diseases remain a global public health issue and linked with Sustainable Development Goal 6. In November 2020, a war broke out in Tigray, Ethiopia, resulting in a negative health consequence. The post war status of WASH and its associated diseases are not documented. The aim of this study was to assess the status of drinking water, sanitation and hygiene practices and the prevalence of WASH-associated diseases in Tigray, Ethiopia following the war. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 24 randomly selected accessible districts of Tigray, Ethiopia. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data from households in the study. Data was collected from 2338 households. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the data. The average age of respondents was 28.7 years (SD = 6.2). The majority of respondents 2030 (86.8%) were married and 1698 (72.6%) were rural residents. Nearly one third of the respondents were uneducated and around 40% have either radio or TV as means of communication. More than half (55.2%) of the respondents had a family size of over 5.A quarter (25%, 95% CI: 23.3, 26.8) of study participants had access to a basic water supply. Less than a tenth (7.7%, 95% CI: 6.6, 8.8) of households had access to basic sanitation. Basic hand washing was available in 2% of households. Malaria, diarrhoea, skin infection and eye infection were the common reported disease in the community. Marital status, family size, place of residence and liquid waste management were the most important predictors of reported diseases.Access to basic water, sanitation and hygiene services was low, and the prevalence of malaria, diarrhoea and skin infections was higher. There were differences in WASH services and reported diseases according to zone and place of residence (urban-rural). Post war, improved access to basic water, sanitation and hygiene services is recommended to prevent WASH-associated diseases in Tigray, Ethiopia. Furthermore, the prevention oriented policy of the country needs better implementation to reduce preventable diseases and ensure better health status in the community.

Unveiling spatio-temporal mysteries: A quest to decode India's Dengue and Malaria trend (2003-2022)

Dengue and malaria are two mosquito-borne diseases that are dangerous globally, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. In India, these two diseases pose severe health issues as they account for 74.37 % of the total vector-borne disease burden in the country. The present study examined the spatio-temporal patterns of prevalence of dengue and malaria across all states in India. Data related to epidemiological statistics were obtained from the Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI) and the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) for 2003–2017 and 2018–2022, respectively. In this study, we have utilized the Mann-Kendall test, Modified Mann-Kendall test, Sens's slope, Innovative trend analysis, and Percent Bias for trend analysis. Furthermore, a hotspot analysis was conducted to compare and examine the evolving patterns of these diseases over space and time. The Mann-Kendall test showed a significant increase in dengue cases throughout India, with Sen's slope showing the fastest growth in Punjab. West Bengal exhibited the most significant ITA slope increase. The PBIAS slope showed a gradual rise from the southern to the northern and north-eastern states. Mann-Kendall results indicated a statistically significant decline in malaria cases, dropping mostly in Odisha, followed by the northern, southern, and north-eastern states. Only Mizoram displayed an insignificant upward trend in malaria cases. Hotspot analysis revealed that dengue fever hotspots expanded in India's central, western, and northern regions, affecting 66.72 % of the country, whereas significant coldspots remain unchanged. Malaria hotspots covered 47.46 % of north-eastern, eastern coastal, and northern areas, while coldspots almost remained unchanged. This study provides valuable insights for health authorities to prioritize and identify the regions that need immediate intervention regarding these two mosquito-borne diseases.

Efficacy of Malaria Symptoms as an Indicator of Malaria Infection among Students of a Tertiary Institution in Ogun State Nigeria

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by the parasite Plasmodium, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia refers to the presence of the parasite in the absence of fever or malaria-related symptoms. In Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State, Nigeria, a study was conducted to ascertain the frequency of asymptomatic malaria among students attending higher education institutions and determine the efficacy of malaria symptoms as an indicator of malaria infection. A total of 115 students who consented to participate in the study were enrolled, and only a total of 93 of the respondents were recruited for the study, having met the inclusion criteria. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on socio-demographic characteristics, signs and symptoms of malaria, and malaria prevention strategy using Insecticide Treated Nets (ITN). Blood samples were collected from the respondents and diagnosed for malaria using Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT) kit. Of the 93 respondents, 32 (34%) were males while 61 (66%) were females. Analysis of the result showed that 77% of the respondents had malaria parasites, 38.7% of the respondents indicated that they do feel feverish sometimes while 47.3% responded that they rarely feel feverish, those who rarely show symptoms were observed to be asymptomatic as the result of the RDT was positive for malaria. On the use of Insecticide Treated Net (ITN) for both categories of students, those who are not using the net had a higher prevalence (64.5%) of malaria infection. The result of this study shows that malaria symptoms is not a good diagnostic tool for determining treatment. Asymptomatic malaria was a risk factor among the students therefore measures to reduce the prevalence are advocated.

Prevalence and Control of Malaria in Uganda: Epidemiological Trends and Public Health Interventions

Malaria is a critical public health issue in Uganda, a country that bears one of the highest burdens of the disease globally. Despite significant advancements in medical treatments and preventive measures, malaria continues to pose a substantial threat to the health and economic well-being of Ugandans. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the prevalence and control of malaria in Uganda, examining epidemiological trends and assessing the impact of public health interventions. Recent data indicate that while the overall incidence of malaria has declined due to intensified control efforts, pockets of high transmission persist, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Seasonal variations and demographic factors further influence malaria transmission, with children under five and pregnant women being particularly vulnerable. Public health interventions such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), rapid diagnostic testing (RDT), and artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) have been instrumental in reducing malaria prevalence, though challenges such as insecticide resistance and health system constraints remain. The methodology used in writing this paper involves a comprehensive review of existing literature on malaria prevalence and control strategies in Uganda. Future directions include integrated vector management, strengthening surveillance systems, and investing in research and innovation to develop new tools and strategies. Addressing these challenges through a multifaceted approach is essential for sustainable malaria control and ultimately eliminating the disease in Uganda. Keywords: Malaria Control, Epidemiological Trends, Public Health Interventions, Insecticide Resistance, Integrated Vector Management (IVM).

Protecting maternal health: Strategies against HIV and malaria in pregnancy.

Maternal health remains a global priority, with particular emphasis on combating infectious diseases such as HIV and malaria during pregnancy. Despite significant progress in prevention and treatment efforts, both HIV and malaria continue to pose significant risks to maternal and fetal well-being, particularly in resource-limited settings. The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programs for HIV and intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) for malaria represent cornerstone strategies in mitigating the impact of these infections on pregnancy outcomes. PMTCT programs focus on early HIV diagnosis, antiretroviral therapy initiation, and promoting safe infant feeding practices to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission. Similarly, IPTp involves the administration of antimalarial medication to pregnant women in malaria-endemic regions to prevent maternal and fetal complications associated with malaria infection. Integration of HIV and malaria prevention and treatment services within existing maternal and child health programs is crucial for maximizing impact and minimizing healthcare system strain. Strengthening health systems, improving access to antenatal care services, and enhancing community engagement are essential components of comprehensive maternal health strategies. Furthermore, promoting awareness, education, and empowerment of pregnant women and communities are vital in fostering health-seeking behaviors and adherence to preventive measures against HIV and malaria. In conclusion, protecting maternal health from the dual threat of HIV and malaria requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses prevention, screening, treatment, and community engagement.

Knowledge, attitude and practice levels regarding malaria among the Semai sub-ethnic indigenous Orang Asli communities in Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia: a stepping stone towards the prevention of human malaria re-establishment

BackgroundIn Malaysia, despite a decline in cases, malaria remains a major public health concern, especially among the vulnerable indigenous people (i.e. Orang Asli) in remote areas. Effective preventive and control measures require an evidence-based understanding of their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding malaria. This study aimed to evaluate the KAP regarding malaria in an indigenous settlement in Peninsular Malaysia.MethodsA household-based cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2024 in six Semai sub-ethnic indigenous villages in Pos Lenjang, Kuala Lipis, Pahang. A structured questionnaire was administered to randomly selected individuals (≥ 12 years old) to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics and KAP. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and predictors of KAP were determined using logistic regression. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsA total of 267 individuals from 160 households were interviewed. Nearly half had good knowledge (49.4%) and positive attitudes (54.3%) towards malaria, with high practice scores for prevention and control (83.1%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed higher odds of good knowledge in those aged 40–59 years (adjusted odd ratio [aOR] = 6.90, p = 0.034), with primary (aOR = 2.67, p = 0.015) or secondary education (aOR = 2.75, p = 0.019), and with previous malaria history (aOR = 5.14, p < 0.001). Higher odds of a good attitude were found in those with secondary education (aOR = 4.05, p < 0.001) and previous malaria history (aOR = 2.74, p = 0.017). Lower odds were observed for the unemployed (aOR = 0.25, p = 0.018) and those collecting forest products (aOR = 0.25, p = 0.049) for attitude and practice, respectively.DiscussionThe overall practice level on malaria prevention was high among the Semai Orang Asli in Pahang. However, to ensure sustainability, the low levels of knowledge and attitude regarding malaria must be strengthened through increased health education and continuous community engagement.

Malaria Prevention and Control in Nigeria: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Current Strategies

Malaria has been a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly among children under five and pregnant women. Despite all efforts made to control and prevent malaria, Nigeria continued to bear a disproportionate share of the global malaria burden. This review critically evaluated the effectiveness of current malaria prevention and control strategies in Nigeria, including the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), chemoprevention, and public health education campaigns. The methodology involved a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed studies, government reports, and data from international health organizations to assess these strategies. The review identified gaps in the implementation of these strategies and explored innovative approaches that could enhance their impact. It also discussed the role of environmental management, community engagement, and the integration of technology in malaria control efforts. The findings suggested that while existing strategies have made significant progress in reducing malaria transmission, challenges such as resistance to insecticides, inconsistent use of preventive measures, and limited healthcare infrastructure hindered their overall effectiveness. The review concluded by proposing recommendations for strengthening malaria prevention and control efforts in Nigeria, with a focus on sustainability, scalability, and community involvement. Keywords: Malaria Control, Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs), Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), Chemoprevention, Environmental Management.

Insufficient Awareness Regarding Anemia Prevention during Pregnancy among Expectant Women in Uganda

Anemia during pregnancy is a significant public health issue in Uganda, affecting 30-50% of expectant mothers, with detrimental consequences for both maternal and fetal health. This condition, characterized by low hemoglobin levels, increases the risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal mortality. Despite its prevalence, there is insufficient awareness regarding anemia prevention among pregnant women in Uganda. Contributing factors include poor nutrition, chronic infections, lack of access to healthcare, and cultural beliefs that hinder dietary practices. This review explores the types, causes, and consequences of anemia during pregnancy, as well as existing prevention strategies, such as iron and folic acid supplementation, malaria prevention, and community health initiatives. It also highlights the barriers to awareness, including educational, socioeconomic, and healthcare access challenges, and offers recommendations for improving awareness, prevention, and healthcare access. Strengthening education campaigns, leveraging community health workers, and enhancing healthcare infrastructure are vital for reducing the burden of anemia in pregnancy and improving maternal and child health outcomes. Keywords: Anemia, pregnancy, Uganda, iron deficiency, maternal health, prevention strategies, public health.

The Burden of Malaria in East Africa: Epidemiology and Health Impact

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in East Africa, disproportionately affecting the region due to diverse ecological conditions, socioeconomic factors, and variable healthcare infrastructure. This review provides an overview of the epidemiological landscape and health impact of malaria in East African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Ethiopia. The prevalence and distribution of malaria vary widely, with high transmission rates in specific regions and vulnerable groups, particularly children under five and pregnant women. The disease’s health impacts are profound, contributing to high morbidity and mortality, economic loss, and educational deficits, while placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Despite progress in malaria control efforts, challenges such as drug resistance, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the need for sustained funding persist. The methodology for this review involved a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and epidemiological data on malaria in East Africa. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes improved surveillance, targeted interventions, and community engagement to reduce the burden of malaria and improve health outcomes in the region. Keywords: Malaria Epidemiology, East Africa, Health Impact, Socioeconomic Burden, Malaria Control Strategies.

Lower Microscopy Sensitivity with Decreasing Malaria Prevalence in the Urban Amazon Region, Brazil, 2018-2021.

Malaria is increasingly diagnosed in urban centers across the Amazon Basin. In this study, we combined repeated prevalence surveys over a 4-year period of a household-based random sample of 2,774 persons with parasite genotyping to investigate the epidemiology of malaria in Mâncio Lima, the main urban transmission hotspot in Amazonian Brazil. We found that most malarial infections were asymptomatic and undetected by point-of-care microscopy. Our findings indicate that as malaria transmission decreases, the detection threshold of microscopy rises, resulting in more missed infections despite similar parasite densities estimated by molecular methods. We identified genetically highly diverse populations of Plasmodium vivax and P. falciparum in the region; occasional shared lineages between urban and rural residents suggest cross-boundary propagation. The prevalence of low-density and asymptomatic infections poses a significant challenge for routine surveillance and the effectiveness of malaria control and elimination strategies in urbanized areas with readily accessible laboratory facilities.

Malaria Prevention Strategies in Kalimantan, Indonesia: A Secondary Analysis of 2018 Basic Health Research Data

Background: Kalimantan remains malaria-endemic, particularly in rural areas, where prevention efforts face challenges such as insecticide resistance and limited healthcare access. Despite available measures like insecticide-treated nets, gaps in understanding individual and household prevention practices persist, especially in relation to demographics and effectiveness in reducing malaria transmission.Purpose: This study aimed to examine the individual and household-level malaria prevention strategies utilized in rural Kalimantan and evaluate their effectiveness in reducing malaria incidence.Methods: The study is a secondary analysis of the 2018 Basic Health Research. A total of 67,155 respondents in Kalimantan were analyzed including respondent characteristics, memories of malaria infection, and individual and household malaria prevention efforts. Bivariate regression and multivariable logistic regression were used in data analysis.Results: Older participants were less likely to report having malaria, although self-reported malaria rates were higher among older respondents compared to younger ones. Women reported lower malaria rates than men, especially in South Kalimantan. Agricultural workers showed a higher likelihood of reporting malaria than the jobless, though not statistically significant. In West Kalimantan, the use of bed nets was associated with higher self-reported malaria rates (OR=1.838, 95% CI:1.147–2.943). Short-term use of Insecticide Treated Nets showed varying odds across provinces: Central Kalimantan (OR = 3.659, 95% CI 1.378–9.717), South Kalimantan (OR = 10.811, 95% CI 3.649–32.030), East Kalimantan (OR = 2.615, 95% CI 1.041–6.567), and West Kalimantan (OR = 2.428, 95% CI 1.446–4.078). In all provinces, preventive measures such as coils or electric mats reduced self-reported malaria cases. The use of mosquito screens was effective in South Kalimantan (OR = 0.208, 95% CI 0.027–1.598), Central Kalimantan (OR = 0.365, 95% CI 0.120–2.181), and North Kalimantan (OR = 0.000, 95% CI 0.000–0.000). The multivariate model highlighted mosquito nets as the most effective household-scale prevention in nearly all Kalimantan provinces, except North Kalimantan.Conclusion: This study shows that individuals aged 25 and over, women, non-farmers, and those using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and other preventive measures, especially in rural areas, were less likely to report malaria, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions from local health authorities

Research on Tropical Medicine and Germ Theory in Colonial Hong Kong: Focusing on Malaria and Plague Prevention.

At the end of the nineteenth century, Hong Kong was in the midst of a malaria and plague epidemic which caused a fierce dispute within the medical community over disease theories and quarantine practices. However, the Hong Kong colonial authorities and medical community did not immediately accept the theory of etiology based on germ theory. Although germ theory was becoming scientifically established through research on plague and malaria in the 1890s, the Hong Kong colonial authorities and medical community did not immediately accept it. Patrick Manson (1844-1922) began studying tropical medicine based on germ theory by studying elephantiasis and malaria in Amoi and Hong Kong during the 1880s. However, he was unable to strongly advocate for a quarantine policy based on germ theory because the exact transmission routes of these diseases were not yet fully understood. Although the scientific community began to shift towards germ theory after the discovery of causative bacteria for diseases like malaria and plague in the 1880s and 1890s, many medical and colonial health officials in Hong Kong still held on to the quarantine policy based on miasma theory. However, a series of infectious diseases and destructive miasma theory-based quarantine measures were pushing Hong Kong society into chaos, and the existing quarantine measures was no longer sustainable. In the twentieth century, colonial authorities and medical community in Hong Kong adopted tropical medicine and quarantine measures based on germ theory as their prominent position. Despite the establishment of tropical disease theory based on germ theory, racial perceptions of disease did not change significantly. Instead, the theory of tropical medicine reinforced orientalist views of disease.

Readiness of malaria elimination in community and health facility of Mannaung Township, Rakhine State, Myanmar in 2022: a mixed-methods study

Background: Myanmar aims to eliminate Plasmodium falciparum malaria by 2025 and all human strains by 2030. In 2018, three townships including Mannaung township in Rakhine State were chosen for elimination pilot projects. The readiness assessment of community health-seeking behaviour and healthcare services of a malaria surveillance system for malaria elimination was conducted in Mannaung township. Methods: In December 2022, a mixed-methods survey interviewed 400 villagers regarding health-seeking behaviour and in-depth interviews (IDI) with Healthcare Providers (HCPs) from eight Health Centers and three hospitals for healthcare services of surveillance systems for malaria elimination. Results: Of 400 households, 154 (38.5%) had at least one family member contracting fever in the last 3 months. Among the 686 members contacted, 220 (32.1%) had a fever within the 3 months. Of these reported fever, 70 respondents (31.8%) were tested with RDT of which 51 (72.9%) were tested within 24 hours. Three main themes emerged from qualitative data analysis: experience of malaria prevention and control activities, malaria case-based response activities and suggestions to improve malaria surveillance. Although most of the HCPs expressed their understanding of testing criteria for malaria elimination, some had a knowledge gap in malaria elimination response activities. The HCPs received malaria elimination training in 2019, but they suggested providing malaria elimination-related training annually. Conclusions: The readiness assessment revealed delayed health-seeking behaviour in malaria thus awareness raising within the community should be provided. The HCPs need to enhance their ability to conduct surveillance activities for malaria elimination.

Community-based malaria prevention policy model in Rampah Village, Kutambaru District, Langkat Regency, Indonesia

Community-based malaria prevention policy model in Rampah Village, Kutambaru District, Langkat Regency, Indonesia

Long-lasting insecticidal nets use and the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care at the Bonassama District Hospital, Littoral Region of Cameroon: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMalaria during pregnancy continues to be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality for both infants and mothers, particularly in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, despite increased efforts to control it. The utilization of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) during pregnancy is a well-established strategy to reduce the prevalence of malaria. Nonetheless, inadequate adherence remains a persistent challenge in certain regions with high malaria endemicity. This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of long-lasting insecticidal nets in preventing asymptomatic malaria infections among pregnant women attending antenatal care at the Bonassama District Hospital in the Littoral Region of Cameroon.MethodsA hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2022. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and LLIN usage were collected through a structured questionnaire, while asymptomatic malaria infections were identified using a PfHRP2/pLDH malaria qualitative rapid diagnostic kit. The relationship between categorical variables was analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression at a significance level of 5%.ResultsOut of the 411 pregnant women included in the study, 35.4% were diagnosed with malaria. The LLIN utilization rate was 65.1%. The risk of malaria infection was 2.7 times higher (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI = 1.83–4.14, p < 0.001) among women who did not consistently use LLINs compared to those who did. Pregnant women in their first trimester (AOR = 3.40, 95% CI = 1.24–4.64, p = 0.010) and second trimester (AOR = 1.90, 95%CI = 0.99–3.62, p = 0.055) were more likely to sleep under net when compared to those in the third trimester. Younger women 20–29 years (71.4%), those in the first trimester (69.6%) and those who had the nets before pregnancy (68.9%) were amongst those who frequently used use the nets. Among the reasons reported for not frequently using LLINs were heat (55.2%), suffocation (13.6%) and the smell of nets (8.4%).ConclusionThe use of LLIN was moderately high among the participants in this study, though still below national target. Age group, religion and gestation period were the major factors determining the use of LLINs. Considering the proven effectiveness of LLINs in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality, it is imperative for the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) to remain focused in promoting both LLIN ownership and utilization to achieve the national target of 100% and 80%, respectively.

Monoclonal antibodies to the circumsporozoite proteins as an emerging tool for malaria prevention.

Despite various public health strategies, malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum parasites remains a major global health challenge that requires development of new interventions. Extended half-life human monoclonal antibodies targeting the P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein on sporozoites, the infective form of malaria parasites, prevent malaria in rodents and humans and have been advanced into clinical development. The protective epitopes on the circumsporozoite protein targeted by monoclonal antibodies have been defined. Cryogenic electron and multiphoton microscopy have enabled mechanistic structural and functional investigations of how antibodies bind to the circumsporozoite protein and neutralize sporozoites. Moreover, innovations in bioinformatics and antibody engineering have facilitated enhancement of antibody potency and durability. Here, we summarize the latest scientific advances in understanding how monoclonal antibodies to the circumsporozoite protein prevent malaria and highlight existing clinical data and future plans for how this emerging intervention can be used alone or alongside existing antimalarial interventions to control malaria across at-risk populations.

Effectiveness of Insecticide Treated Mosquito Nets on the Death of Anopheles subpictus Mosquitoes

The prevalence of malaria in East Nusa Tenggara based on positive diagnosis results containing malaria parasites and symptoms in the 2013 - 2015 period decreased but has not yet reached the National Strategic Plan target, namely in 2013 it was 21 per 1,000 population (o/oo), in 2014 it was 14 o/oo, and in 2015 it became 8 o/oo (NTT Health Office, 2016). In 2017 there was a spike in malaria cases to 211,409 cases (API = 44.96 o/oo). Kupang Regency with 1,108 cases (API = 24.87 o/oo). Malaria cases in the Tarus Community Health Center work area are the eighth highest, namely 7 cases. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of insecticide-treated bed nets on the death of Anopheles subpictus mosquitoes. The variables observed were the length of time the mosquito net was used, the frequency of washing the mosquito net, the method of washing the mosquito net, and the percentage of Anopheles subpictus mosquito deaths. The effectiveness of insecticide-treated bed nets on the death of Anophles subpictus mosquitoes with usage time &lt; 3 years (100%), usage time 3 – 5 years (70%) and usage time &gt; 5 years (40%). The effectiveness of insecticide-treated bed nets that have never been washed reaches 100% mortality within 24 hours of observation. Meanwhile, mosquito nets with a washing frequency of 1 – 10 times (70%) kill mosquitoes, and a washing frequency of &gt; 10 times (50%). The method of washing mosquito nets carried out by the community in the Puskesmas Working Area is 100% using detergent. In the control group that used mosquito nets that did not contain insecticide, no Anopheles subpictus mosquito deaths occurred (0%). Suggestions for health workers to increase education regarding the correct use of mosquito nets, so that a higher level of effectiveness of mosquito nets is obtained as a means of personal protection in avoiding mosquito bites.