TITLE:
Epidemiological, Clinical, and Therapeutic Aspects of Malaria among Febrile Children Aged 0 - 59 Months in Kisangani
AUTHORS:
Scapin Kabongo Mudipanu, Jean Hubert Tshishimbi Kalala, Pascal Kabangu Tshila, Jean Paul Kasolwa Haraka, Véronique Muyobela Kampunzu, Gaspard Mande Bukaka, Dadi Falay Sadiki, Emmanuel Tebandite Kasai, Jean Pierre Alworong’a Opara
KEYWORDS:
Malaria, Children, Epidemiology, Kisangani, DRC
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.16 No.3,
May
6,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of malaria among febrile children aged 0 - 59 months attending health facilities in Kisangani. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional descriptive study with prospective data collection was conducted from June 15 to December 30, 2025. Febrile children aged 0 - 59 months were consecutively recruited. Malaria diagnosis was based on RDT and/or microscopy. Discordant results were considered positive if either test was positive. Species identification relied on microscopy. Data were analyzed using R version 4.3.1. Results: Among 417 children included, the hospital malaria prevalence among febrile children was 39% (95% CI: 34 - 43). Plasmodium falciparum accounted for 89% of infections. Uncomplicated malaria represented 82% of cases, while 18% were severe malaria. ACT was used in 90.1% (119/132) of uncomplicated cases, and injectable artesunate in 89.6% (26/29) of severe cases. Conclusion: Malaria remains highly prevalent among febrile children in Kisangani. Strengthening early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and preventive strategies is essential.