Prevalence of Malaria and Associated Factors among Under Five Febrile Children Attending Ener Amanuel Health Center, Southern Ethiopia: An Institution-based Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Malaria is a major public health problem in Ethiopia, including Enor-Ener Woreda. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of malaria among febrile children under five years of age attending Ener Amanuel Health Center, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ener Amanuel Health Center, located in Enor-Ener Woreda, from December 2022 to April 2023. A total of 218 febrile children under five years were enrolled. Blood samples were collected, and malaria was diagnosed using microscopy. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with Plasmodium infection. Results: The prevalence of malaria was 21.1% in Enor-Ener Woreda, with P. falciparum being the predominant species (60.9%). Factors significantly associated with Plasmodium infection included proximity to mosquito breeding sites (P=0.025), not sleeping under insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) (P=0.021), and having beds unsuitable for ITN hanging (0.002). Conclusion: Malaria remains a significant public health concern in the study area. Key factors associated with infection include the presence of mosquito breeding sites and improper ITN use. Strengthening ITN utilization and eliminating mosquito breeding sites are essential to reduce the malaria burden among under-five children in the area.