Malaria Prevalence, Distributions and Mosquito Abundance in Selected Locations of Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated malaria prevalence, mosquito species distribution, and abundance in three wards of Jalingo Local Government Area (LGA), Taraba State, Nigeria Majidadi, Mayo-Gwoi, and Sarkin-Dawaki. A total of 370 individuals were randomly selected for malaria screening using rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits. Mosquitoes were collected using pyrethrum spray collections (PSC) and identified morphologically with standard keys. Overall malaria prevalence was 31.9%, with females showing higher infection rates. Majidadi recorded the highest prevalence (64.4%), while Sarkin-Dawaki had the lowest (16.9%). Children aged 1–9 years and adults aged 30–39 years were the most affected. Seasonal variations indicated peak mosquito density in August. A total of 5,425 mosquitoes were collected, of which Anopheles gambiae was the predominant malaria vector, accounting for 75.0% of all mosquitoes sampled. The Shannon–Weiner Diversity Index revealed higher species diversity in Sarkin-Dawaki but greater abundance of female Anopheles in Majidadi. These findings highlight the combined influence of demographic, ecological, and seasonal factors on malaria transmission in Jalingo. Strengthened vector control, environmental management, and community-based interventions are recommended to reduce malaria burden.