Malaria surveillance in Italy : 1986-1996 analysis and 1997 provisional data

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Malaria eradication was achieved in Italy.
• A potential resurgence of malaria transmission poses a public health risk.
• Robust surveillance is crucial for preventing the re-establishment of endemic malaria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment and function of a national malaria surveillance system in Italy.
• To outline the mandatory reporting requirements for malaria and other infectious diseases.
• To detail the diagnostic role of local laboratories in malaria case detection.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of a national surveillance system for malaria.
• Mandatory reporting of malaria and 43 other infectious diseases.
• Diagnosis of clinical malaria cases by local laboratories.

Main Results:

• A surveillance system is operational in Italy for malaria.
• Mandatory reporting ensures comprehensive data collection for infectious diseases.
• Local laboratories are key in diagnosing malaria cases.

Conclusions:

• The established surveillance system is vital for preventing malaria re-transmission in Italy.
• Mandatory reporting and laboratory diagnostics are essential components of the system.
• Continued vigilance is necessary to maintain malaria-free status.