In Mozambique, malaria is still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for about 44,0% of cases seen in outpatients and 57,0% of admissions in pediatric wards. The mass distribution of mosquito nets treated with long lasting insecticide (REMILD) is one of the preventive interventions used to reduce the burden of malaria in communities at country level. The study aims to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with malaria in areas covered by a mosquito nets distribution campaign in the districts of Nacala-à-Velha and Mecubúri in Nampula province.

Methodology:

Descriptive analysis of secondary data was performed using SPSS version 19. The bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed to estimate the probability of the association or not of malaria infection. We estimated the odds ratio (OR) adjusted and unadjusted CI 95% to a level of significance of 5%.

Results:

A total of 2615 people took part in the study, with a median age of 14 years, interquartile range 10-35 years. Of these 1325 (50,6%) were female. In Nacala-à-Velha 539 people were tested for malaria, and the prevalence of malaria was 44,1%. In Mecubúri, of 598 people tested, the prevalence was 64,7%. The highest prevalence rate in both districts was in the age group of 5-14 years, 63,5% 95% CI (38-82) and 88,1% 95% (76-94) respectively. Factors such as females sexes [OR = 1.79, 95% CI (1.10-2.91)], no access to at least one REMILD [OR = 1:45, 95% CI (1.13-1.88)], and being in the poorest quintile [OR = * 1.72, 95% CI (1.14-2.84)] were associated with malaria infection in the general population.

Conclusions and recommendations:

malaria prevalence was particularly high in people under 14 years of age in both districts. To reduce the burden of malaria, the NMCP should ensure coverage of REMILD and promote their use, particularly in families with a high risk of infection, such as those who have very low levels of poverty and living further inland districts.