Malaria, Soil-transmitted Helminth Infections and Malnutrition among Orphaned and Vulnerable Children in Orphanages in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) often face malnutrition and health risks, including malaria and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections. This investigation in Osun State aimed to examine the nutritional status and the prevalence of malaria and STH infections among OVC residing in orphanages in Osun State, Nigeria, from June to November 2021. Blood and stool samples from 161 children aged 5 to 18 across three orphanages were collected and examined for Plasmodium spp and helminth ova using microscopy and the Kato-Katz method, respectively. Anthropometric measurements were analyzed based on WHO growth charts. Results showed an overall prevalence of 39.1% for malaria and 16.8% for soil-transmitted helminthiasis. Females (48.2%) had a higher malaria prevalence than males (34.3%). The prevalence of STH was also slightly higher in females (17.9%) compared to males (16.2%). However, no significant association between gender and disease prevalence was observed (p>0.05). Additionally, 13 (8.8%) children were severely stunted and 6 (10.2%) were severely underweight. Among severely stunted children, 24 (41.4%) tested positive for malaria and 11 (19.0%) for STH. There were no significant correlations between stunting and malaria infection (p=0.808) or stunting and STH (p=0.450). This study reveals a high prevalence of malaria, STH, and malnutrition among OVCs, underscoring the urgent need for interventions supported by the government such as the distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, regular deworming programs, improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services to reduce the burden of helminthic infections, and the provision of nutritious diets to improve the health and well-being of children in orphanages.