MALARIA INFECTION, NUTRITION EDUCATION AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES OF PATIENTS DIAGNOSED OF MALARIA IN NIGER DELTA TEACHING HOSPITAL, OKOLOBIRI, BAYELSA STATE

Malaria infection is a complex disease involving the Plasmodium parasite and human host. Malaria infection remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region. This study focuses on malaria infection, nutritional management, and prevention strategies of patients diagnosed with malaria in Niger Delta Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, Bayelsa State. The research highlights the importance of adequate nutrition in managing malaria, as it helps strengthen the immune system, repair tissues, and prevent complications like anaemia. The study also emphasizes the role of prevention strategies, such as using insecticide-treated bed nets, eliminating mosquito breeding sited, and promoting awareness about malaria prevention. A cross-sectional design was employed, selecting 25 children aged 0-5 years with malaria disease. The result showed significant positive correlation between malaria infections and nutritional management (r = 0.421, p < 0.05); as well as a significant positive correlation between malaria infection and prevention strategies (r = 0.512, p < 0.05). Thus, indicating adequate nutritional management is associated with reduced severity of malaria infection, and effective prevention strategies are associated with reduced risk of malaria infection. The study concludes that healthcare providers should prioritize patient education and counselling on malaria prevention and treatment, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and prevention strategies in reducing the burden of malaria infection.