Abstract

The aim of the present study was to determine the rate of prevalence of malaria and lymphatic filariasis (LF)
in Amuro, a community in Okigwe Imo State, South Eastern Nigeria, already known for its endemicity to
Onchocerciasis. A total number of two hundred blood samples were collected at random from equal
numbers (100) of men and women aged between 21 and 90, and screened for a possible detection of both
parasites. Using the thick and thin blood staining techniques involving Giemsa stain, one species,
Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) was identified for malaria and one microfilaria, Wuchreria bancrofti, for
lymphatic filariasis. Results obtained show that 10(5%) were positive for LF while 178 (89%) were positive
for malaria. The results also recorded more women 8(4%) cases of LF than men 2(1%), and more men 98
(49%) than women 92(46%) cases of malaria in the community. The mean number of LF was observed to be
more than that for malaria by 0.84. There were significant differences on these parameters between the two
infections in the community at 95% Confidence Interval: t = 126.216; t = 50.045. The rate of coinfection of
the parasites was also compared using the Chi square. There were significant differences (P > 0.005)
between the coinfected and those with either of each parasitic infection alone. It could therefore be inferred
that while the studied community may not be considered endemic for LF as a result of mass ivermectin
administration in the area, it could be described as a hyperendemic region for malaria. Government efforts
through public enlightenment campaigns and supply of drugs for treatment are here solicited for effective
control of these parasites within Amuro community.