MALARIA PREVALENCE AMONG CHILDREN UNDER FIVE IN THE COMMUNE OF NTOUM, NORTHWEST GABON

Background: In Gabon, the malaria burden among five children residing in the western corner of the Estuary province is unknown.The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of malaria infection among children aged five, characterize the sociodemographic profile of these children, and present the means of mosquito control used by their parent or guardian.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over six (6) months, from June to December 2024, at NTOUM Regional (NR) Hospital.Blood samples were collected from 274 children attending the hospital, and analyzed using two different diagnostic methods (microscopy and rapid diagnostic test (RDT)).The socio-demographic data of the children's parents or guardians and the means of malaria prevention used in their household were recorded using a structured questionnaire.Data were then analyzed using R software version 4.1.2.Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.