Malaria vectors composition and malaria transmission indices in some parts of Imo State.

Abstract

To assess Malaria vectors composition and malaria transmission indices in some parts of Imo State.  Mosquitoes were caught indoors using pyrethrum spray catches twice monthly during the hours of 7.00am and 10.00am. Species were morphologically identified: Anopheles gambiae, An. funestus, (malaria transmitting vectors) and other mosquitoe species. Only malaria transmitting vectors were dissected and processed for transmission indices. Of 1,224 mosquitoes, malara transmitting vectors (Anopheles gambiae and An. funestus) represented 34.88% and 27.94 while non-malaria transmitting vectors (Aedes and Culex species) represented 37.17%. More mosquitoes were caught during rainy season than during the dry season (66.99% and 33.00%). The month of July had the highest mosquito density and parity (27.69%). Of the 509 Anopheles mosquitoes species dissected, 509 were blood fed while 6(1.17%) were positive. The study recorded a Sporozoite Infection Rate (SR) of (1.17) and Entomological Inoculation Rates (EIR) was (0021%) per person per night. Malaria risk indices in the study area is highlighted.