High prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in apparently healthy schoolchildren in Aliero, Kebbi state, Nigeria.

Background & Objectives: In malaria endemic areas, continuous exposure to Plasmodium parasites leads to asymptomatic carriers that provide a reservoir, contributing to the persistence of malaria transmission. Thus, a study of the degree of prevalence of asymptomatic parasitaemias will help in assessing the level of reservoir of infection.

Methods: All the consented participants without any signs and symptoms, suggestive of malaria were interviewed and thick blood smears were made to detect malaria parasites. The children presenting with malaria or any other severe illness, and those declining to give consent were excluded from the study.

Results: A total of 118 (59.6%) children out of 198 apparently healthy children were positive for malaria parasites while 80 (40.4%) children were negative for malaria parasites. Prevalence of asymptomatic malaria was higher in males 75 (63.6%) compared to females 43 (36.4%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Incidence of asymptomatic malaria was highest with 76.1% in the children aged 6- 10 yr. There was statistically significant association of the use of bednet on prevalence of asymptomatic malaria.

Interpretation & Conclusion: High prevalence of asymptomatic malaria detected in this study is a big challenge and can be a threat to the present malaria control programme. Thus, it should be considered in assessing and reorganising more effective malaria elimination strategies to achieve the desired goal of malaria control.