Physiological Effects of Malaria on Haematological Parameters in Children Under Five in Bayelsa State

Malaria continues to be a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, exerting significant haematological effects that compound its clinical impact. This study evaluated the haematological consequences of malaria infection on children under five years attending a primary healthcare centre in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, South South Nigeria. One hundred children diagnosed with confirmed Plasmodium falciparum malaria by rapid diagnostic test were compared with 50 age-matched malaria-negative children. Full blood count parameters including haemoglobin, packed cell volume, white blood cell count, and platelet count were determined using an automated haematology analyser. Malaria parasite density was estimated by blood film microscopy. Pearson correlation was used to examine relationships between parasite density and haematological values. Results demonstrated significantly lower haemoglobin and packed cell volume in malaria-infected children, with 46 percent meeting criteria for severe anaemia. Platelet counts were significantly reduced, reflecting malaria-associated thrombocytopenia. Parasite density correlated inversely with haemoglobin and platelet count. White blood cell patterns showed leukocyte shifts consistent with acute infection. The study concludes that malaria infection exerts profound haematological disruption in young children in Bayelsa State. Prompt diagnosis, treatment, and anaemia management are critical components of paediatric malaria care. Keywords: malaria, haematological parameters, anaemia, children, Bayelsa State.