Abstract

Sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) prophylaxis and use of Long Lasting Insecticide Treated nets (LLINs) are the main interventions recommended by WHO to reduce malaria risks during pregnancy. To assess the degree of coverage against malaria afforded by treated mosquito net alone or combined with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine among currently pregnant women (cpw) in Nigeria. A population-based cross-sectional household survey conducted in Nigeria in 2007 evaluated single and combined intervention among cpw. Total number of cpw in all the surveyed households was 295 among of which 33% slept under any net and 27% under LLIN. Only 6% took IPT1 and 3% took IPT2.  Of those who took IPT1, 47% slept under any net and of those who took IPT1 and IPT2, 33% slept under mosquito net. Cpw in South of Nigeria were twice more likely to sleep under treated nets than their northern counterpart and cpw who slept under treated nets were 4 times more likely to take IPT1 or IPT1 and 2. Combination intervention (CI) of IPT and LLIN use in pregnancy, though desirable, is still low in Nigeria.  Aggressive approach to CI and health literacy among women is needed to diminish malaria-attributed maternal morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. Malaria control programs should explore the possibility of pregnant women taking SP at home under supervision of Role Model Caregivers.

Key words: Malaria, pregnant women, mosquito nets, sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine, prevention, community.