The Effect of Free Distribution of Insecticide-Treated Nets on Asymptomatic Plasmodium Parasitemia in Pregnant and Nursing Mothers in a Rural Nigerian Community

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Malaria is a major public health problem in Nigeria; with adverse outcomes on the poor; pregnant women and children living in rural communities. A major component of current intervention in roll back malaria (RBM) initiative is vector control and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). Aims and Objective: This research studied the impact of free distribution of ITNs on malaria parasitemia in a rural community in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This is a longitudinal survey involving 990 pregnant and nursing mothers who received free ITNs between February 2007 and September 2008. Blood samples were collected at contact; then every 2 months to check for malaria parasites using standard methods. Result: There was a sustained but insignificant rise in asymptomatic malaria parasitemia post-distribution of ITNs. Conclusion: We conclude that ITN intervention remains important in malaria prophylaxis but must be complemented with awareness campaigns and other vector control strategies