Epidemiological Study of Malaria in Mahendranagar VDC of Sunsari District
Files
Date
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Institute of Science and Technology Central Department of Zoology Tribhuvan University Kathmandu, Nepal
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of malarial parasites among
the people inhabiting the Mahendranagar VDC that lies in tropical region in Eastern
Nepal. An active detection was made by collecting 250 blood samples from suspected
individuals visiting at Health Post and Janasewa Clinic during the study period, by
microscopic examination of thick and thin blood smear preparation. Besides this,
structured questionnaire was used to assess the socio-economic status and the
environmental aspects in relation to the malaria. Out of 250 blood samples collected,
10 samples were positive for the malaria infection. The slide positivity rate was found
to be 4% and the causer organism was found to be Plasmodium vivax only. Age wise
data revealed that of the total infected population the highest age specific slide
positivity rate was found in 31-40 years age group (7.69%). Similarly in relation to
sex, slide positivity rate was 5.33% in males and 2% in females. The prevalence rate
of malaria was found to be higher in poor class people (5.15%) and those living in
hut houses (7.54%). The malaria infection was common among Hindu people (4.65%)
when compared to Muslim(0%) and Buddhist(0%).Likewise , prevalence of malaria
was found to be the highest in illiterate (5.31%).Occupation wise prevalence was
found to be highest in jobholders (5%) followed by farmer (4.8%) and labours
(4.76%). High rate of infection was recorded during four summer months (April,
May, July and September) with the largest number of patients during July (14.4%). In
relation to environmental aspects and preventive measures malaria infection was
common in hand pump users (4.13%) and in those applying no preventive measures
(15%). With respect to migration, 80% (8 cases) of the total infected people were
permanently inhabiting the area whereas 20% (2 cases) were migrated from India.
Based on the present study; biological, physical and socio-economic measures are
recommended to eradicate the malaria in the study area where there still needs to be
conducted some integrated programmes for the eradication of malaria.