Individual and community level factors of malaria among under-five children in Kenya: Based on the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey.

BACKGROUND

Malaria remains a significant global public health challenge. In Kenya, it is a leading cause of illness and death among children under five in malaria-endemic areas. Understanding its prevalence and the factors influencing it is essential for informed public health decisions and targeted interventions.

OBJECTIVE

Assess prevalence and associated factors of malaria in under-five children using the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey data.

METHOD: A total of 3146 children were included in this study. A multilevel logistic regression model was fitted to assess factors associated with malaria, with significance reported at p-value < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

The prevalence of malaria among under-five children in Kenya was 22.72% (95% CI: 21.29, 24.22). Maternal age between 25-34 (AOR:0.75,95% CI:0.57,0.99) years, richest wealth of family (AOR 0.48, 95% CI 0.26-0.89), treated mosquito bed net (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.17, 0.89), no bed net (AOR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.31, 0.77), mothers who are breast feeding (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.85) and community level poverty(AOR = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.19, 2.77) were the associated factors of malaria among underfive children in Kenya.

CONCLUSION

Malaria prevalence among under-five children in Kenya was 22.72%, with risk factors including poverty and lack of bed net use, while maternal age (25-34 years), higher wealth, treated bed nets, and breastfeeding were protective. To reduce malaria, promoting the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, supporting low-income families, and strengthening maternal health education are essential. Additionally, poverty alleviation programs and enhanced malaria surveillance can help mitigate risks. Strengthening community-based interventions and improving healthcare access are crucial for long-term malaria control.