Malaria in Pregnancy Amidst Possession of Insecticide Treated Bed Nets (ITNs) in Orlu L.G.A. of Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is one of the most dreadful diseases in pregnancy due because it affects not only the pregnant mother, but also the foetus especially in the Tropical African countries. Most endemic nations have embarked on free or affordable distribution of insecticide treated bed net as an alternative to drug interventions, yet many people, especially children and pregnant women stand the risk of malaria attack annually. Hence the study on the malaria status and possession of insecticide treated bed net (ITN) among pregnant women in Orlu LGA in 2019.A total of 600 pregnant women were encountered in health care service centersin the area, out of which 514 gave their consent and participated in the study. Blood samples were collected using finger pricking method, stains made directly on slides allowed to dry and then taken to diagnostic laboratory for parasitological analysis. The slides were stained with Giemsa stain and examined using X100 oil immersion objective lens. Biodata and other relevant information on the use/ non use of ITN were obtained using well- structured questionnaire and focus group discussions. The results obtained revealed that out of 514 participants examined,318(61.9%) had malaria parasites while 196(38.1%) had no malaria. Gravid related prevalence showed primed of having the highest prevalence of 69.1%, while the least infected were those of thirdgravidae, (44.3%). Trimester related prevalence also had the first trimester group of having the highest prevalence of 71.5%, while the least was observed among the second trimesters, 55.5%.  Of 217 (42.2%) who use ITN,129 (59.4%) were infected while 63.6% of those who do not use had a malaria infection as well. Generally, this study revealed that it is not only the distribution or possession of ITN that reduces or prevents malaria infection, but the zeal and enabling environment to use the nets appropriately. A lot more is needed to really prevent malaria infection among the most vulnerable and indeed the entire populace through improved education strategy. Better enlightenment of the public as well as availability of coping strategies to really ameliorate the effect of extra heat and rashes from the bed nets are paramount.