Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Childhood Malaria Prevention Among Mothers in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

Malaria remains the leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with Plateau State recording significant endemic burden despite its relatively higher altitude. This descriptive cross-sectional study assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to malaria prevention among mothers of children under five in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A total of 325 mothers attending child welfare clinics in Jos North and Barkin Ladi local government areas were recruited through systematic sampling. A validated structured questionnaire assessed malaria knowledge, preventive practices (insecticide-treated net use, indoor residual spraying, and prompt treatment-seeking), and attitudes towards malaria prevention programmes. Results indicated that 84.3% of respondents knew malaria was transmitted by mosquitoes. However, only 52.6% used insecticide-treated nets consistently, and 31.4% had received indoor residual spraying within the last 12 months. Mothers with secondary or tertiary education demonstrated significantly better preventive practices (p less than 0.01). A positive attitude towards malaria prevention was noted in 71.8% of respondents, though this did not consistently translate into sustained preventive behaviour. Seasonal awareness of malaria risk was poor, with many mothers not recognising year-round transmission risk. Recommendations include integrating malaria prevention counselling into routine child welfare services, community-based net distribution, and targeted behaviour change communication campaigns. Keywords: malaria prevention, KAP, under-five children, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria.