Abstract:
Malaria affects an estimated 250 million people each year and is the most widespread parasitic disease encountered (Grimberg & Mehlotra, 2011). The disease has a worldwide distribution and is found throughout the tropics, sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific islands, India, and Central and South America (Ashley et al., 2006). Malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum predominates in Africa where the mortality attributed to it approaches 1 million annually, and accounts for 90% of the global malaria burden (Breman et al., 2004). The majority of these deaths are children under the age of 5 years. Thus, one child dies of malaria in Africa every 30 seconds, which translates into a tragic 3000 children each day (WHO 2010; Grimberg & Mehlotra, 2011). Many of the children who survive an episode of severe malaria suffer from brain damage and cognitive disability. (Oh & Chishti, 2005).
This research examines the impacts of malaria in children under 5 in Juba Block, Juba City Council, in Central Equatoria State, South Sudan. The findings aim to enhance understanding of the complex interactions between impacts of Malaria for children under 5 while developing adaptation strategies and policies to bolster the resilience of fighting malaria of children under 5 in the local populations.
The study will be conducted from April to August 2025 in Juba Block, Juba City Council, Central Equatoria State, utilizing purposive and simple random sampling techniques to gather information through a cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach. Data will be collected using pre-tested questionnaires administered by trained research assistants. Ethical considerations will be prioritized, including obtaining ethical clearance and informed consent from participants. Quantitative data analysis will be performed using appropriate statistical software, specifically SPSS, to conduct descriptive analysis that summarizes the characteristics of the study population and assesses the effects of malaria on the health of children under five years of age.
The research findings will be disseminated through scientific publications, conferences, and presentations to contribute to evidence-based interventions and programs aimed at reducing malaria in children under 5 and improving the health and welfare of children. Ultimately, this study seeks to provide valuable insights that can inform policymakers and stakeholders in addressing the impacts of Malaria on Children under 5 in Juba Count
