ASSESSMENT OF PLASMODIUM VIVAX/PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM CO-INFECTION AMONG HUMANS IN AWKA METROPOLIS, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA.
Abstract
Malaria remains a significant public health burden in Nigeria, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most prevalent species. However, the emergence of Plasmodium vivax, previously thought to be absent or rare in the country, has raised concerns about its potential impact on malaria control efforts. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical implications of P. vivax and P. falciparum co-infection among humans in Awka metropolis, Anambra state, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted using blood samples from 50 individuals, encompassing children, adult males, and adult females. Participants were recruited from Awka in Anambra state, Nigeria, known to be endemic for malaria. Blood samples were collected using sterile procedures and analyzed using microscopy for the detection of both P. vivax and P. falciparum. Clinical information, including age, sex, fever, and other symptoms, was also recorded. A total of 45 individuals blood samples (90%) viewed microscopically showed the presence of Plasmodium species, with P. falciparum being the most prevalent species (58% of samples), while 5 individual blood samples viewed microscopically showed the absence of Plasmodium species. Notably, 9 participants (14%) were found to be co-infected with both P. vivax and P. falciparum. The detection of P. vivax/ P. falciparum co-infection in Nigeria highlights the evolving malaria landscape and underscores the need for revised control strategies. Further research is required to investigate the molecular and epidemiological characteristics of P. vivax/P. falciparum co-infection in Nigeria, enabling the development of targeted strategies for effective malaria control and elimination.
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