PROFILING OF PLASMODIUM INFECTION IN CHILDREN ATTENDING PEDIATRIC CLINICS AT SOME HOSPITALS IN KANO, NIGERIA

Malaria remains a global public health challenge, particularly impacting children in tropical and subtropical regions. Malaria, mainly caused by Plasmodium falciparum, is the leading cause of hospital admissions and outpatient visits in Africa. It affects the physical and mental well-being of school children, thereby leading to increased absenteeism, retarded cognitive development, and learning disabilities. Anemia is one of the main complications, yielding devastating effects that may include impairment of physical and cognitive development, especially in association with iron deficiency. This study aimed to profile Plasmodium infection and assess its relationship with anemia in participants, thereby providing group with HCP with the knowledge to manage the infection adequately. A total of 150 children aged 5-15 years were recruited from two health facilities within Kano metropolis for the study using systematic random sampling after obtaining an ethical approval and assent from the children’s guardians. Five milliliters of blood was collected and used to make a Giemsa-stained blood film to detect and count malaria parasites. PCV and Hb concentrations were estimated using Sysmex KX-21N. A prevalence of 40.7% was observed, all due to Plasmodium falciparum. No significant difference was observed between the children based on sex or age. However, a significant difference was observed in the mean PCV and Hb concentration levels between children with and without Plasmodium infection. Changes in some hematological values in children with malaria in this study are associated with anemia.