Trends of Malaria Cases (Plasmodium Species) in Gute Health Center, Wayu Tuka District, East Wollega Zone, (2013-2022)

Author(s):

Temesgen Tafesse, Ra’el Desalegn, Alemayehu Dereje, Chimdesa Tolera, Dejene Desalegn and Desalegn Amenu*

Malaria is one of the major public health issues in Ethiopia that hindered the country's economic growth and development and Ethiopia is on target to reduce the incidence of malaria by 80% in 2025. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the trends of malaria prevalence in Wayu Tuqa District, Gute Health Center for the last ten years (2013-2022). A retrospective study was conducted to determine the trends of malaria cases by reviewing the malaria registration laboratory logbook in Wayu Tuqa District, Gute health center from 2013 to 2022. All the sociodemographic data, year, month and malaria prevalence were collected using a predesigned data collection sheet recorded from perspective years. In this study, out of the total 15,040 suspected patients, 3,402 (22.50%) of malaria cases were recorded at Gute Health Center. Plasmodium falciparum was the most predominant species which accounted 82.84% (2,818) followed by Plasmodium vivax 16.00% (547). Males and the individual greater than 15 years old were the most affected categories. In this study, the higher cases of malaria diseases were recorded during the years of 2021 and 2022, respectively. In addition, the higher incidence of malaria cases was reported in autumn season, 40% (1,339) and while the lowest prevalence was observed in spring, 16% (546). The overall trend of plasmodium species of the last ten years (2013-2022) at Gute Health center has not shown inconsistent trends. Therefore, proper planning, implementation and monitor of malaria prevention and control activities should be strengthened at all levels.