Prevalence of Malaria and utilisation of Long-lasting insecticidal nets: coverage and utilisation rate among pregnant women attending the antenatal care clinic at Butemba Health Centre IV. A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: The consequences caused by malaria in pregnancy affect both the mother and infant. Maternal complications include acute lung injury, severe hypoglycemia, miscarriage, stillbirth, and coma. The study aims to determine the prevalence of malaria and evaluate the coverage and utilisation rate of long-lasting insecticidal nets among pregnant women attending the antenatal care clinic at Butemba Health Centre IV. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, involving 80 respondents who were selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were obtained using structured questionnaires and malaria rapid diagnostic tests, for analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results: The majority of the respondents, 55(68.8%) had tested negative for malaria; 25(31.2%) tested positive for malaria.  All 25(100%) of respondents were detected with Plasmodium falciparum. The majority of the respondents, 65(81.2%) had mosquito nets, 15(18.8%), never had mosquito nets. The majority of the respondents, 60(92.3%), obtained IPT from a government facility; 5(7.7%) brought it from the market. 64(98.5%) slept under a mosquito net daily, while the least, 1(1.5%), used it rarely. 40(50%) of the respondents were aged 25 – 34 years, 1(1.3%), were above 44 years. 50(62.5%) had attained primary education level Conclusion: Malaria remains an important health concern among pregnant women attending Butemba Health Centre IV despite relatively high ownership and utilisation of mosquito nets. The occurrence of Plasmodium falciparum infection indicates that existing preventive measures may not provide complete protection against malaria in pregnancy. Recommendations: Health workers should continue to monitor/supervise mothers while taking IPT to foster continued adherence to the medication. In addition, demonstration teaching methods on use of LLINs should be offered so as ensure appropriate use.