The effect of free distribution of insecticide-treated nets on asymptomatic Plasmodium parasitemia in pregnant and nursing mothers in a rural Nigerian community.

INTRODUCTION Malaria is a major public health problem in Nigeria, with adverse outcomes on the poor, pregnant women and children living in rural communities. A major component of current intervention in roll back malaria (RBM) initiative is vector control and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). AIMS AND OBJECTIVE This research studied the impact of free distribution of ITNs on malaria parasitemia in a rural community in Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a longitudinal survey involving 990 pregnant and nursing mothers who received free ITNs between February 2007 and September 2008. Blood samples were collected at contact, then every 2 months to check for malaria parasites using standard methods. RESULT There was a sustained but insignificant rise in asymptomatic malaria parasitemia post-distribution of ITNs. CONCLUSION We conclude that ITN intervention remains important in malaria prophylaxis but must be complemented with awareness campaigns and other vector control strategies.