Prevalence of malarial parasites Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum in male population of Faisalabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Malaria is the fifth leading cause of death worldwide. Pakistan is considered as a moderate malaria-endemic country but still, 177 million individuals are at risk of malaria. Roughly 60% of Pakistan's population, live in malaria-endemic regions. The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum in blood of human males among rural and urban population of Faisalabad. The diagnosis, seasonal variations and age wise distribution of Plasmodium spp. circulating in the study area were also included in the objectives. 250 finger prick blood samples were collected from suspected patients during May to July from rural and urban population of Faisalabad. Prevalence of malarial parasite in male population was 7.29%. Prevalence was higher in the age group 40-50 years. Among positive samples, most of the males were infected with P. vivax. All patients showed different sign and symptoms such as chill, fever, vomiting and headache. It was also observed that prevalence of malaria was significantly higher in rural areas and in areas where proper sewerage system was not available. Socio economic status of positive cases was middle or lower class with limited income ranging Pak rupees 10,000-20,000 per month. They were unable to afford to adopt preventive measures like use of mosquito repellents, insecticide treated bed nets etc. Our study reveals that malaria is prevalent in rural areas of Faisalabad and necessary preventive measures are needed.