MUHIMBILI UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH AND ALLIED
SCIENCES
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF MALARIA
AMONG UNDER FIVE YEARS CHILDREN AT TEMEKE DISTRICT
HOSPITAL
Patrick Saulo Nanyaro 2022-04-16402
Zakayo Mabula Robert 2022-04-16364
Yohana B Chacha 2022-04-16371
Daniel Boniface Daniel 2022-04-16372
Peter John Elias 2022-04-16386
Maria Juma Majinge 2022-04-16390
Bariki Amenye Enock 2022-04-16397
Ezekiely E Mwalongo 2022-04-16401
Yohana Z Makayi 2022-04-16415
Rose Valerian Wisso 2022-04-16428
Background
Malaria is a crucial significant global health issue, with notable increases in cases and deaths
number reported between 2000 and 2015. In 2022, there were approximately 249 million malaria
cases and 608,000 deaths worldwide, reflecting a rise compared to 2021, which recorded 24
million cases and 619,000 deaths (Tesfye, June 12, 2024). In 2020 only, nearly half of the global
population was at high risk of malaria, leading to an estimated 241 million infections and over
627,000 deaths an increase of 14 million cases and about 69,000 deaths compared to 2019
(Chilot D, May 31, 2023).
The African continent has no proper relation on the burden of malaria, accounting for 95% of
cases and 96% of deaths in the same year. This crisis particularly affects vulnerable populations,
including infants, children under five years old, pregnant women, and individuals living with
HIV/AIDS. In 2020, children under five represented approximately 75% to 80% of all malaria-
related deaths in the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa region (Yimer MA, May 31,
2023).
Rapid urbanization in sub-Saharan Africa has significantly altered ecological and social
structures, affecting disease patterns. Currently, an estimated 300 million people live in urban
areas across Africa, with two-thirds at high risk for malaria due to a lack of understanding of the
social and environmental factors influencing transmission (Wang, April 4, 2006).
Despite being preventable and treatable, malaria still threating public health, particularly in
tropical, and sub-Saharan regions. It accounts for 13% of all infectious disease cases globally,
with 90% of deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly in Eastern Africa.
Although preventive measures such as mosquito nets, antimalarial medications, and indoor
residual spraying have been implemented, malaria remains endemic in these areas. Recent
climatic changes, including flooding, have intensified the incidence of vector-borne diseases like
malaria (Balikuddembe, July 11, 2023).
Tanzania is one of the country’s most severely affected by malaria, contributing to approximately
30% of the national disease burden. To effectively combat this disease, it is crucial to gain a
comprehensive understanding of the risk factors associated with malaria transmission.
Identifying these factors based on local research can support existing preventive measures or
lead to the introduction of new preventive measures.
Understanding the geographical distribution of malaria cases allows for targeted interventions
and improved treatment outcomes. Cluster analysis has been employed to identify malaria
transmission patterns in various regions of Tanzania. Although recent data indicate a decline in
malaria epidemiology, continued improvements in prevention and control strategies are essential
and must be informed by knowledge of risk factors. This study aims to investigate the
epidemiological changes in malaria within the Temeke district by identifying significant
household risk factors related to individual behaviors. Additionally, it will examine clusters of
malaria cases in Temeke (Winskill, April 20, 2011).
Problem Statement
Malaria continues to be a threat to public health in rural and rapid urbanization like Temeke
district that leads to poor waste management example water drainage, sewage treatment and
large house hold size hence not all family members can sleep under mosquito net, Failure to
access and inadequate knowledge on health care services is problem which drawback prevention
and control of malaria program like uses of insecticide treated nets (ITNs), most of member use
nets for a long period of time without treat it again and sometimes use low quality Nets which
either wearer /teared that make it ineffective in preventing user from mosquito bites. In Tanzania,
malaria ranks as a major reason for seeking health services, accounting for about 40% of all
reported illnesses in children under five who visit outpatient facilities. One of the strategies to
combat malaria and its associated health issues in Tanzania involves managing cases through
timely diagnosis and treatment with effective medications. (Humphrey D Mazigo)
Rationale
Despite the existence of malaria control measures and interventions, the rates of morbidity and
mortality among children under five remain alarmingly high. This study aims to explore the rapid
Urbanization concern and its related factors such as poor waste management, large size of house
hold and how to use ITNs effectively. The data gathered will enhance understanding of the
factors contributing to the high prevalence of malaria parasites in children under five in Temeke
District. The information collected will play a crucial role in the efficacy of ongoing malaria
control and elimination efforts, allowing for adjustments to be made to improve the effectiveness
of these measures in reducing the malaria burden and working towards elimination.
Research Questions
[Link] is the prevalence of malaria among children under five years in Temeke District?
[Link] are the associated risk factors contributing to the high prevalence of malaria among
children under five in Temeke District?
[Link] does rapid urbanization and poor waste management contribute to the prevalence of
malaria in Temeke District?
What is the level of knowledge and practice regarding the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs)
among households in Temeke District?
4What are the barriers to accessing and utilizing effective malaria prevention and control
measures in Temeke District?
Broad objective
To assess the prevalence and assocciated risks factors of malaria among under 5 age group of
Temeke district
Specific Study Objectives
[Link] determine the prevalence of malaria among children under five years in Temeke District.
To identify and analyze the risk factors associated with malaria prevalence among children under
five in Temeke District.
To assess the impact of rapid urbanization and poor waste management on malaria prevalence in
Temeke District.
To evaluate the knowledge and practices related to the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs)
among households in Temeke District.
