South Asian Journal of Parasitology

Neonatal malaria is an under-recognized condition in malaria-endemic regions, despite its potential contribution to neonatal morbidity. This study assessed the prevalence, parasitemia patterns, and hematological changes associated with malaria among neonates in Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,500 neonates recruited from four tertiary health facilities: Federal Medical Centre Jalingo, Specialist Hospital Jalingo, First Referral Hospital Mutum-Biyu, and General Hospital Zing. Malaria diagnosis and parasitemia grading were performed using standard microscopy. Hematological parameters were analyzed using standard laboratory techniques. Statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square and t-test, with significance set at p < 0.05. The overall prevalence of neonatal malaria was 5.7% (85/1500), with significant variation across study sites (χ² = 8.119; p < 0.05). The highest prevalence was recorded at General Hospital Zing (8.0%) and the lowest at First Referral Hospital Mutum-Biyu (3.2%). There was no significant difference in infection rates between male (5.6%) and female (5.7%) neonates (χ² = 0.005; p > 0.05). Parasitemia analysis showed 5.2% low, 0.4% moderate, and 0.0% high parasitemia, with significant differences across locations (χ² = 20.657; p < 0.05). Infected neonates exhibited significantly elevated total white blood cell counts and differential counts, alongside reduced packed cell volume, lymphocytes, and platelet counts (p < 0.001). Neonatal malaria in Taraba State occurs at a moderate prevalence and is associated with significant hematological abnormalities. Routine screening and early diagnosis are recommended to improve neonatal outcomes.