RECORDS OF MALARIA AMONG CHILDREN AGED 0–5 YEARS IN ONDO WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA: A RETROSPECTIVE DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria bears the highest national malaria burden globally, accounting for approximately 27% of worldwide cases. Despite national elimination efforts, southern Nigeria, including Ondo State, continues to record high pediatric malaria case counts, particularly through Primary Health Centers (PHCs). This study examined the monthly distribution of malaria cases among children aged 0–5 years across five PHCs in Ondo West Local Government Area (LGA), Ondo State, Nigeria in 2025. It is important to note that, as population-at-risk denominators were unavailable from PHC registers, findings are presented as a descriptive analysis of case counts rather than computed incidence rates. A retrospective descriptive design was adopted. Secondary data were extracted from official health records of five purposively selected PHCs, covering January through December 2025. Descriptive statistics including frequency counts, percentages, and monthly trend analysis were used to summarize findings. A total of 471 malaria cases were recorded across the five PHCs. Maroko PHC recorded the highest burden (n = 137; 29.1%), followed by Janway PHC (n = 95; 20.2%) and Sabo PHC (n = 81; 17.2%). Case counts peaked during the early rainy season (January–February) and the mid-rainy season (July), consistent with increased Anopheles mosquito activity. Better Life PHC recorded the fewest cases (n = 71; 15.1%). The distribution of malaria cases among children under five exhibits seasonal variation aligned with rainfall patterns. Targeted vector control strategies, expanded ITN coverage, and strengthened PHC surveillance are urgently needed to reduce the pediatric malaria burden in this setting.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19140407