Baseline Indicator Survey of Malaria Prevalence in Benue South: Implications for Local Specific Control Interventions

In this study, the prevalence of malaria in Benue South was undertaken fifty willing symptomatic individuals were randomly selected from each of the nine Local Government Areas (L.G.As) of the zone. Blood samples were collected under sterile condition by swabbing the area with 70 % alcohol and air dried. Thick and thin smear of blood samples were examined under the microscope. The survey results showed the following; Oju (66 %), Obi (74 %), Ohimini (68 %), Ogbadibo (78 %), Okpokwu (54 %), Apa (52 %), Otukpo (58 %), Ado (62 %), Agatu (64%). The study also showed that 14% took malaria treatment action in 24 hours, 28.67 % (1-3days) and 56.67 % (after four days). 25.78 % of the respondents went to hospital for treatment while 40.22% went to a patent medicine dealer, 27.11% treated themselves at home and 6.89 went to faith/prayer homes. The high prevalence of malaria can be better addressed by creation of awareness on malaria prevention measures and promptly visiting the hospital for proper medication