Severe malaria readmissions in Northern Uganda: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Malaria poses a significant global health threat, disproportionately affecting children in endemic areas.
• Understanding factors contributing to recurrent severe malaria in young children in Northern Uganda is crucial for effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors associated with severe malaria readmission within six months post-discharge in children under five years old in Northern Uganda.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in Otuke district, Uganda, involving 760 caregivers of children admitted with severe malaria.
• Data were collected through interviews and review of hospital records to determine readmission rates.
• Statistical analysis was performed using Stata version 15.0.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of severe malaria readmission within six months was 26.8%.
• Key risk factors identified include sickle cell anaemia (aPR 1.72), living in straw/thatch-walled houses (aPR 2.10), and delayed medical care (after 12 hours for fever, aPR 2.01).

Conclusions:

• A high proportion of young children experience severe malaria readmission, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
• Interventions should focus on managing sickle cell disease, improving housing conditions, and ensuring timely treatment for febrile illnesses to reduce malaria burden.