Malaria Prevalence, Clinical Presentation, and Management Practices among Under-Five Children in ESUTH, Parklane

Abstract

Background: Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria. Despite ongoing control efforts, the burden remains high, necessitating continuous evaluation of disease patterns and management practices. Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, clinical presentation, and management practices of malaria among under-five children in ESUTH, Parklane. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Parklane, among 150 children aged 0–59 months with laboratory-confirmed malaria. Data were obtained through structured questionnaires and medical record review and analysed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The prevalence of malaria was 74.7%, with the highest burden observed among children aged 12–35 months (80.9%). Fever was present in all cases (100%), while other common symptoms included vomiting (69.6%), cough (64.3%), and diarrhoea (53.6%). Severe malaria accounted for 25.0% of cases, with manifestations such as convulsions and prostration. The mean packed cell volume was 27.8 ± 6.5%, indicating a high prevalence of anaemia. Microscopy was the most frequently used diagnostic method (58.7%), followed by rapid diagnostic tests (41.3%). Artemisinin-based combination therapy was the predominant treatment (73.3%), with injectable artesunate used in severe cases. Overall, 85.3% of patients recovered, although a minority experienced complications or required referral. Conclusion: Malaria remains highly prevalent among under-five children in this setting, with significant clinical and haematological consequences. Strengthening preventive strategies, improving early diagnosis, and ensuring prompt treatment are critical to reducing disease burden and improving outcomes.