Comparative Analysis of Malaria Vector Sporozoite Load and Malaria Prevalence Among Vulnerable Populations in Wukari, Taraba, Nigeria

Malaria continues to be a major public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where transmission is shaped by the interplay of vector ecology, human behavior and health system limitations. This study investigated malaria transmission dynamics in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria, by integrating entomological surveillance with epidemiological assessments among vulnerable populations. Over a twelve-month period, adult Anopheles mosquitoes were collected using standardized trapping methods, identified morphologically and by PCR and examined for Plasmodium sporozoites. Concurrently, cross-sectional surveys were conducted among febrile children aged 0-5 years and pregnant women to determine malaria prevalence using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy, while also documenting preventive practices and healthcare access. A total of 450 female Anopheles mosquitoes were analyzed, with sporozoites detected in both midguts (65.8%) and salivary glands (34.2%), confirming high transmission potential. Weekly infection intensities showed no significant fluctuations, but spatial heterogeneity revealed localized hotspots of residual transmission. Among human participants (n = 156), malaria prevalence was highest in children under five, who accounted for nearly three-quarters of infections, while pregnant women, particularly those aged 18-34 years, also showed considerable vulnerability. The disparity in prevalence between groups was statistically significant (χ² = 27.115, p = 0.001). Healthcare infrastructure assessments highlighted uneven diagnostic and treatment capacity, with larger hospitals better equipped than smaller facilities that suffered from shortages of personnel and laboratory resources. These systemic gaps, combined with limited coverage and inconsistent use of insecticide-treated nets and antenatal preventive measures, contributed to sustained transmission. The findings underscore the urgent need for geographically targeted interventions, including strengthened vector control, improved antenatal chemoprevention and expanded access to sensitive diagnostic tools. Investments in local laboratory capacity, routine entomological monitoring and community engagement are essential to enhance uptake of preventive measures and adapt strategies to evolving transmission patterns. By linking entomological and epidemiological data, this study provides an actionable evidence base for optimizing malaria control in Wukari and similar high-burden settings, with the ultimate goal of reducing morbidity and moving toward elimination.