A 5 year trend analysis of malaria prevalence with in the catchment areas of Felegehiwot referral Hospital, Bahir Dar city, northwest-Ethiopia: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND: Malaria is one of the killer diseases in Ethiopia and it is still the first leading cause of death in health facilities. However, there is no information yet regarding the trends of malaria prevalence at health institution and particularly at Felegehiwot referral Hospital. Hence , knowing the trends of malaria prevalence at each health facilities is essential to design appropriate interventions. Therefore, the present study addressed the above gaps. RESULTS: Overall, 14,750 blood films were diagnosed for malaria. Of these, 740 (5%) were confirmed with microscope. Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax accounted for 397 (53%) and 331 (45%), respectively. Age groups >20 year (p < 0.02) and males (p < 0.025) were significantly affected. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, P. falciparum was predominant as compared to P. vivax. Hence, it needs close monitoring and intervention measures for control activities.