Spatio-temporal characterization of malaria prevalence in a peri-urban resource limited setting of Western Kenya Highlands

Abstract

Background: Malaria is the main killer disease in sub-Sahara Africa.

Objective: The study identified malaria prevalence patterns in relation to space and time trends in a peri-urban resource limited setting of Western Kenya highlands aimed at strengthening implementation of malaria control strategies.

Method: A longitudinal study was carried out in Mbale town and its environs, Vihiga County, from December 2019 to November 2020. Among patients who presented themselves at Mbale Provincial Rural Training health center for different medical issues, 768 malaria confirmed patients were recruited and signed consent before the study commenced. Data was collected using questionnaire and microscopy which was presented through graphs, frequency, means and analyzed using linear regression. P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Plasmodium falciparum malaria constituted 98.7%,while P. malariae, P. vivax, and P. ovale constituted 1.3%. Linear regression analysis showed effect of age, gender and location on malaria prevalence as (R2 = 0.7, [F (3,764) = 1.854], p < 0136). Malaria prevalence varied in different months due to changes in amount of rainfall and temperatures received.

Conclusion: Spatio-temporal characterization and many mosquito breeding grounds influenced malaria prevalence in the study area. Malaria control strategies should be strengthened in relation to space and time-trend.