THE EFFECT OF MALARIA PARASITE ON STUDENTS ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN SA’ADU ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY, BAUCHI STATE
Abstract
Background: Malaria remains a formidable public health challenge in Nigeria, accounting for a significant portion of global morbidity and mortality. In tertiary institutions, students face heightened risks due to substandard living conditions and poor environmental sanitation, which facilitate the breeding of Anopheles mosquitoes. Objective: This study examines the prevalence and impact of malaria on the health and academic performance of students in Nigerian tertiary institutions. Methodology: The study utilizes a review of epidemiological data and existing literature (2018–2024) to analyze the relationship between environmental factors—such as stagnant water, poor drainage, and refuse dumping—and malaria transmission. Results: Findings indicate that Nigeria contributes approximately 25% of global malaria cases. Among students, infection leads to frequent absenteeism, fatigue, and cognitive impairment, directly correlating with lower academic achievement. Despite a reduction in national mortality rates from 153,000 in 2010 to 95,000 in 2018, non-compliance with preventive measures like Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) and Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACTs) persists. Conclusion: The study underscores the urgent need for improved campus sanitation and targeted health education to mitigate the academic and physiological burden of malaria on the next generation of Nigerian professionals.
Keywords: Malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, Tertiary Institutions, Academic Performance, Nigeria, Environmental Sanitation.
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