Prevalence and spatial distribution of malaria-causing Plasmodium infections in the Niger Republic

Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) constitutes the main malaria parasite in Niger. Little is known about other malaria parasite species in the country. This study documented the prevalence and spatial distribution of Plasmodium species in the Niger Republic based on different epidemiological zones of the country. This was a cross-sectional study conducted during the high malaria transmission period (September to November 2022). Blood sample was collected on filter paper, from patients with fever. Plasmodium species were identified by RDTs, thick smear, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

The study population included a total of 5251 patients from whom 5096 were analyzed. Among the analyzed patients, 1460 were in the hypo-endemic epidemiological area, 878 in the meso-endemic epidemiological area and 2758 in the hyperendemic area. Among the 304 samples collected via PCR, 55% (166/304) belonged to the genus Plasmodium. The species falciparum represented 90% (149/166) compared to 5% (9/166) Ovale; 3% (5/166) malariae and 2% (3/166) vivax. The vivax was identified in a hypo-endemic area.

This study reveals a strong predominance of P. falciparum in the three epidemiological area of malaria in Niger. The findings highlight the circulation of P. vivax in hypo-endemic area. The results would help the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) to better orient and adapt its malaria diagnosis and management strategy in Niger.