Transfusion-transmitted malaria in the United States from 1963 through 1999
M Mungai1, G Tegtmeier, M Chamberland
1Division of Parasitic Diseases, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
The New England Journal of Medicine
|June 30, 2001
Summary
Transfusion-transmitted malaria, though rare, occurred in 93 US cases from 1963-1999. Most infections were preventable, highlighting the need for strict donor screening to prevent malaria transmission.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Hematology
Background:
- Transfusion-transmitted malaria is a rare but serious complication.
- A review of cases reported to the CDC from 1963-1999 was conducted following three complicated Plasmodium falciparum infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiology and characteristics of transfusion-transmitted malaria cases in the United States.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of donor exclusion guidelines in preventing malaria transmission.
Main Methods:
- Data from surveillance reports to the CDC and the National Malaria Surveillance System were used.
- Donor characteristics were compared against Food and Drug Administration and American Association of Blood Banks exclusion guidelines.
Main Results:
- 93 cases of transfusion-transmitted malaria were reported, caused by various Plasmodium species, with a 11% mortality rate.
- Of 67 identified infective donors, 59% were foreign-born. A significant percentage of donors should have been excluded based on guidelines in place at the time of donation and current guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Strict adherence to donor screening and exclusion guidelines is crucial for preventing transfusion-transmitted malaria.
- Effective screening of blood donors remains the primary strategy to mitigate the risk of malaria transmission through blood transfusions.
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