Original Research Articles

Health Practices by Primary Caregivers on Clinical Cases of Malaria among Under-Five Children in Rural Health Facilities in Delta State, Nigeria

Authors

  • Evelyn Tarela Ojugbeli

    Author

  • Mary Isioma Ofili

    Author

  • Gabriel Nduka Enudinisu

    Author

  • Innocent Onyesom

    Author
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66779/ajt62m14
Abstract

Background: Malaria remains a major public health threat for children under five in Nigeria. This study evaluated the health practices of primary caregivers in managing clinical malaria among under-five children in Delta State, with emphasis on prevention strategies, home-based treatment, and healthcare‑seeking behaviours.

Methods: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted from June 2023 to May 2024 in three rural secondary hospitals representing Delta State’s senatorial districts. A total of 633 primary caregivers of under‑five children presenting with fever or malaria‑like symptoms were consecutively recruited. Malaria diagnosis was performed using both Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and microscopy. Data on preventive practices, home management, and care‑seeking timing were collected using a validated structured questionnaire. Associations were examined using chi‑square analysis and multivariable logistic regression.

Results: The overall malaria prevalence was high: 71.1% by RDT and 66.3% by microscopy. Children aged 13–36 months were the most affected group. Consistent use of insecticide‑treated nets (ITNs) showed a significant protective effect against malaria infection (Adjusted OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.15–0.45, p < 0.001). Use of herbal remedies showed no statistically significant association with malaria status (Adjusted OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.62–1.34, p = 0.67). Although delayed care‑seeking beyond three days was common, it was not independently associated with malaria positivity in adjusted models.

Conclusion: There is a critical need for targeted public health interventions that enhance ITN utilization, promote timely access to healthcare, and reduce over‑reliance on unproven home remedies. Improved caregiver education and community‑focused malaria control strategies are essential to reducing the disease burden among under‑five children in rural Delta State.

Keywords: Caregiver practices; Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs); Herbal remedies; Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT); Microscopy; Malaria prevalence; Public health intervention; Healthcare-seeking behaviour.

 

Author Biography
  1. Mary Isioma Ofili

    None

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Published
19-12-2025
Issue
Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): Bridging research and clinical practice
Section
Original Research Articles

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