Management and Preventive Practices for Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria Transmission in Selected Rural Communities of Adamawa State, Nigeria

Malaria, particularly Plasmodium falciparum malaria, remains a major public health challenge among children under five in rural communities of Adamawa State. This study assessed malaria prevalence, treatment practices, and preventive measures in Bazza, Mboi, and Yebbi. A cross-sectional design was adopted using structured questionnaires administered to caregivers. Data on demographic characteristics, housing conditions, treatment behavior, and preventive practices were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that children aged 1–2 years had the highest vulnerability, with reported cases of 277 (72.1%), 200 (52.1), and195(50.8) in Bazza, Mboi, and Yebbi, respectively. Overcrowding was evident, with 568 (49.3%) children living in sleeping spaces of 3–4 persons, and the majority of respondents 459 (39.8%) residing in family houses. Regarding treatment of malaria, 887 respondents used antimalarial drugs representing 380(99.0), 253(65.9) and 254(66.1) for Bazza, Mboi and Yebbi respectively, with 374 (32.5%) specifically using artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). Rapid response to treatment was reported within 24–48 hours by a large proportion of respondents. However, 311 (27.0%) respondents indicated inability to use ACTs due to cost, while a few relied on herbal remedies 28 (2.4%). In terms of management, 414 respondents reported malaria episodes within the last three months in Bazza 163(42.4), Mboi 116(30.2) and Yebbi 135(35.2) and 754 representing Bazza 357(93.0), Mboi 173(45.1) and Yebbi 224(58.3) underwent diagnostic testing, mainly microscopy 61% and rapid diagnostic tests39%. Preventive practices showed moderate uptake, with high utilization of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) (mean = 3.94 in Mboi; 3.81 in Yebbi) and insecticide spraying (mean = 4.34 in Mboi; 4.12 in Yebbi), though alternative measures such as burning coils were also reported. In conclusion, despite considerable useof recommended treatment and preventive strategies, significant gaps remain in affordability, housing conditions, and consistent utilization of effective interventions. Strengthening access to affordable ACTs, improving living conditions, and enhancing community-based malaria education are essential to reduce transmission.