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Malaria prevalence in Bata district, Equatorial Guinea: a cross-sectional study
Policarpo Ncogo1, Zaida Herrador2,3, Maria Romay-Barja4,5
1Reference Centre for Epidemics Control of Equatorial Guinea (CRCE), Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. pncogo@crce-guinea.org.
Malaria Journal
|November 18, 2015
Summary
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Equatorial Guinea, with higher prevalence in rural areas. Interventions should target specific age groups and communities to combat the disease effectively.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Malaria is a major health concern in Equatorial Guinea.
- The epidemiological situation post-2011 Global Fund interventions remains unclear.
- This study assesses malaria prevalence and risk factors in Bata district.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of malaria in Bata district using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs).
- To identify factors associated with malaria infection.
- To provide evidence for the National Malaria Control Programme.
Main Methods:
- A representative cross-sectional survey was conducted in urban and rural Bata district from June to August 2013.
- Data collected included socio-demographics, health status, and malaria-related behaviors.
- Malaria diagnosis was performed using RDTs, with statistical analyses to identify associations.
Main Results:
- Malaria prevalence was significantly higher in rural (58.9%) than urban (33.9%) settings.
- Anaemia was prevalent, particularly in rural areas (89.6%).
- Positive RDT results were associated with age (13 months-14 years), ethnic group, household size, fever history, anaemia, and bed net usage. Not sleeping under a bed net doubled malaria risk.
Conclusions:
- Malaria prevalence is high in Bata district, with rural areas disproportionately affected.
- The National Malaria Control Programme should consider rural-urban and age-specific differences for targeted interventions.
- Findings support regional policy development and preventive strategies.
