Background of the Study
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, accounting for a significant proportion of morbidity and mortality, particularly among children under five and pregnant women. According to the WHO (2024), Nigeria bears approximately 27% of the global malaria burden, with rural and semi-urban communities most affected. Despite efforts to combat malaria, transmission rates remain high due to environmental, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors (Ahmed et al., 2024).
One of the most effective malaria prevention strategies is the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), which serve as a physical and chemical barrier against Anophelesmosquitoes, the primary vector of malaria (Ogunleye et al., 2023). ITNs have been widely distributed in Nigeria through government programs and international health initiatives, yet malaria prevalence remains high in states such as Adamawa. Several factors, including improper use, lack of awareness, and resistance to insecticides, have contributed to the reduced effectiveness of ITNs in malaria prevention (Salako et al., 2024).
Adamawa State, located in northeastern Nigeria, has a high malaria burden due to its tropical climate, which supports mosquito breeding. Although the government and non-governmental organizations have distributed ITNs across the state, malaria cases remain prevalent. This study aims to assess the role of ITNs in malaria prevention in Adamawa State by examining their coverage, usage patterns, and effectiveness in reducing malaria incidence.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the widespread distribution of insecticide-treated nets in Nigeria, malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Adamawa State. According to the Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS, 2023), malaria prevalence in Adamawa remains high, raising concerns about the effectiveness and proper utilization of ITNs.
Several studies have suggested that the misuse of ITNs, including using them for other purposes such as fishing or farming, reduces their intended protective function (Ahmed et al., 2024). Additionally, some communities in Adamawa State exhibit resistance to ITN usage due to cultural beliefs, discomfort, or misconceptions about their effectiveness. Furthermore, the emergence of insecticide-resistant mosquito populations may compromise the protective benefits of ITNs (Ogunleye et al., 2023).
Without a clear understanding of ITN utilization patterns and their impact on malaria prevention in Adamawa State, efforts to control malaria may remain ineffective. This study seeks to evaluate ITN coverage, usage, and effectiveness in preventing malaria transmission in the state.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of ITN coverage and usage in Adamawa State.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of ITNs in reducing malaria incidence in Adamawa State.
3. To identify barriers affecting the proper utilization of ITNs in malaria prevention.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of ITN coverage and usage in Adamawa State?
2. How effective are ITNs in reducing malaria incidence in Adamawa State?
3. What factors hinder the proper use of ITNs in malaria prevention?
Research Hypotheses
1. There is a significant relationship between ITN usage and malaria reduction in Adamawa State.
2. The misuse or non-use of ITNs contributes to high malaria prevalence in Adamawa State.
3. Socioeconomic and cultural factors significantly impact the proper utilization of ITNs.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on households in selected local government areas of Adamawa State to assess ITN distribution, usage, and effectiveness. Limitations may include self-reported data on ITN usage, which may be subject to bias, and potential difficulty in tracking malaria incidence among study participants.
Definitions of Terms
• Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs): Bed nets treated with insecticides to protect individuals from mosquito bites and reduce malaria transmission (WHO, 2024).
• Malaria Prevention: Strategies aimed at reducing malaria transmission, including the use of ITNs, indoor residual spraying, and antimalarial medications (Ahmed et al., 2024).
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