Prevalence of Malaria in Eastern Uganda: A Cross-…

<p>This study was conducted between January and December 2023 across Mbale, Sironko, Manafwa, Bulambuli and Namisindwa districts. A total of 1,200 children under five were enrolled using stratified random sampling. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and thick blood smear microscopy were used for malaria diagnosis.</p><p>Overall malaria prevalence was 34.2%, with the highest burden in rural sub-counties with limited access to insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). Binary logistic regression identified lack of ITN use (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.9–4.1) and proximity to stagnant water (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.6–3.4) as significant predictors of malaria positivity.</p><p>The findings underscore the continued need for targeted vector-control interventions and community health worker programmes in the Elgon sub-region.</p>