Coordinator of the National Malaria Control Programme, Dr Yemi Sofola, has identified neglect as a contributory factor to increase in the spread of malaria in the country.

She made the call at the presentation of malaria education books to the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) in Abuja.

Sofola stressed the need to educate parents, guardians and children on the dangers of malaria.

"Malaria is preventable and curable, many parents and guardians are unable to recognise the signs and symptoms of malaria.

"It is important that parents and guardians, especially those who may be in risk groups, recognise the signs and symptoms of malaria so as to seek prompt medical treatment," she said.

Sofola added that the book titled "I Need to Know", would help children learn how to prevent the disease and actively participate in preventive measures with friends and family.

"Schools provide a good entry point for malaria prevention and control, children can be educated on the dangers of malaria through reading this book," she said.

Sofola stated that malaria was a major public health problem responsible for three out of 10 deaths of children under five years in Nigeria.

"If a child is infected with malaria and recovers from the illness, he or she risks suffering from re-infection.

"Children who survive from malaria attacks may develop impairments to their cognitive development and repeated absenteeism from school also impact on their learning negatively," she said.

Sofola stressed that schools provide the most effective and efficient way to reach large proportions of the Nigeria populace.

Earlier, Mrs Utsaio Dupe, NAPPS Abuja chapter secretary, said the book would help prevent the spread of the disease as well as proffer preventive measures.

Dupe, who is a teacher at Siloam School Gwarinpa, said that malaria prevention would be part of the school curriculum.

"We have already ordered for the books which I think will go a long way to teach student and teachers on best ways to prevent the disease," she said. (NAN)