Malaria Infection Among Psychiatric Patients Attending Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Edo State

Abstract

Malaria is a dangerous and sometimes fatal disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite. It is spread to humans via the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. It negatively affects populations with improper prevention measures like psychiatric patients. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of malaria parasite infection among psychiatric patients in Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Benin City, Edo state, Nigeria. Ethical approval and informed consent was sorted prior to collection of samples. A total of 122 males and 98 females within the age of 21-70 years were examined. Information bordering on gender, age, and marital status, use of drugs and level of education were obtained from the patients. Blood samples were collected aseptically through venipuncture and thick blood films were prepared for the examination of malaria parasites. An overall prevalence rate of 52.7% malaria parasite infection was recorded. The prevalence was higher in males (60.3%) when compared to females (39.7%) although it was not statistically significant (OR-1.522, 95%CI- 0.714-3.242, p=0.276). Age group 21-30 years had the highest prevalence (65.5%) of malarial infection. Stagnant water and usage of drugs had a significant relationship with prevalence of malaria parasite infection (p<0.05). Marital status and level of education had no statistically significant association with the infection (p>0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant association between anaemia and malaria among the participants. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the significance of malaria infection among psychiatric patients in the study area. There is a need for targeted interventions and improved healthcare access for these patients.