Community-related factors contributing to the increased cases of malaria among children below five years in Arua regional referral hospital, Arua district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background

Uganda and the entire Sub-Saharan Africa have one of the highest global burdens of malaria cases. This study aimed to identify the community-related factors contributing to the increased cases of malaria among this age group in Arua regional referral hospital.

 Methodology

The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study with a purposive sampling technique, which was used to collect data from 50 respondents according to the specific objectives. The data was later analysed by using Microsoft Word and Excel, then presented in tables and figures.

 Results

Half of the respondents (50%) had attained primary school, and 52% were peasant farmers. Community-related factors noted were that the location of respondents' homes had an impact on the increased malaria cases, as (54%) of homes were surrounded by vegetation, poor housing infrastructures since (48%) had semi-permanent houses, and poor waste management by (28%) who kept solid wastes at home in open heap garbage places.

 Conclusion

Location of the respondent’s homes, poor housing infrastructures, and poor waste management behaviour were the major factors contributing to an increase in the number of malaria cases among children below five years.

 Recommendations

The government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health, should ensure interior spraying is available to all households at no cost.