Malaria prevalence and preventive measures among pregnant women in Obowo L.G.A Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is a major public health concern among pregnant women. The study on Malaria prevalence and preventative measures was carried out among pregnant women in Obowo, L.G.A, Imo State, Nigeria. Thick and thin smear of venous blood samples of 200 pregnant women obtained using all aseptic means were prepared and stained and tested for malaria parasites. Results showed that 53.5% of 200 pregnant women examined had malaria infection. Pregnant women within the age group <30 years had significant higher (P<0.05) malaria prevalence rate (49.5%) than other age groups. However, pregnant women who were Farmers had the highest prevalence (36.4%) on the education-related infection women who were illiterates had significantly (P<0.05) higher infection. Primigravidae were the most infected people. Health Education for pregnant women on preventive measures is advocated.

Keywords : Malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum,  Pregnant women