Effect of socio-economic factors on malaria prevalence in a Peri-urban setting in Vihiga County, Western Kenya Highlands

Background: Malaria is the leading cause of mortality in sub-Saharan Africa.

Objective: The study assessed the effect of socio-economic factors on high malaria prevalence in a peri-urban setting in Vihiga County, Western Kenya highlands aimed at strengthening implementation of cost-effective malaria control strategies at household level.

Method: A longitudinal study was carried out in the study area from December 2019 to November 2020. From patients who presented themselves at Mbale Provincial Rural Training health center for various treatments, 768 malaria confirmed patients were recruited and signed consent before the study commenced. Data was collected using microscopy and structured questionnaires used to stratify malaria patients into socio-economic status and their residence. Data was presented through graphs, frequency, analyzed using linear regression and correlation. P-value ≤ 0.05as considered statistically significant.

Results: Linear regression analysis showed effect of socio-economic factors on malaria prevalence was statistically significant, R2 = 0.061, [F (7,760) = 7.063], p < 0.0001). Level of education, wealth, land size, house type and house ventilation were statistically significant to malaria prevalence as opposed to salary and household size.

Conclusion: Socio-economic factors influenced malaria prevalence in the study area. Implementation of cost-effective malaria control strategies should be strengthened at household level.