Trend in Malaria Incidence Rates (2006-2013) in Edo State, Nigeria

Background: Detailed information on the severity of malaria and other diseases across operational areas is a prerequisite to the judicious utilization of limited effective tools for the control in Africa.
Methods: Records of Patients, from the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs), who visited Health Centres across Edo State, 2006-2013, and stored in the Ministry of Health database in Benin City were analysed. Patients were placed in 3 groups (out-patients, In-patients, Pregnant Women).
Human population data, in the 18 LGAs over the period were obtained from the National Population Commission. Malaria incidence rates were estimated. The proportions of patients in the 3 categories annually across LGAs were determined.
Results: Malaria Incidence rates increased 2-13 folds over the period in all LGAs, except in Esan West where there was a significant reduction in 2011. The highest rates were recorded at Esan Central (13.66%) and Uhunmwonde (11.50%). The highest increases in the proportions of patients with severe malaria were at Uhunmwonde, Igueben and Orhionmwon LGAs. In contrast, reductions in the proportions of severe malaria were in Esan Northeast and Owan West. The highest increases in the proportions of pregnant women patients were in Esan central and Esan West; in contrast, major reductions were observed at Oredo and Igueben.
Conclusion: The multi-faceted Federal and State Governments Intervention Policies and Strategies have apparently not been effective in the State. There is an urgent need for the intensification of efforts, including increase in the number of ITNs and upgrading of facilities at the Primary Health Care Centres for holistic diagnosis.