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Fourteen-year experience with imported malaria
A Foca1, G S Barreca, V Barbieri
1Institute of Microbiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy.
Le Infezioni in Medicina
|February 16, 2005
Summary
Imported malaria cases in Calabria, Italy, doubled between 1988-2001, primarily Plasmodium falciparum from Africa. Increased refugee arrivals pose ongoing epidemiological concerns for this southern region.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Calabria, southern Italy, faces potential increases in imported malaria cases.
- Immigration and travel from endemic regions are key risk factors.
- Limited published data exists on malaria epidemiology in Calabria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct an epidemiological analysis of malaria cases in Calabria from 1988 to 2001.
- To discuss the epidemiological and clinical features of imported malaria.
- To identify trends and risk factors for malaria in the region.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of slide-confirmed malaria cases registered in Calabria.
- Data collection from laboratory records, Ministry of Health, and Regional Health Offices.
- Epidemiological and etiological diagnosis of malaria cases.
Main Results:
- 34 malaria cases were reported between 1988-2001, with a doubling of cases in the second seven-year period.
- Most infections were acquired in Africa (84.8%), predominantly Plasmodium falciparum (60.6%).
- Mortality rate was 3.0%; only 27.3% used correct chemoprophylaxis, with diagnostic delays common.
Conclusions:
- Imported malaria, particularly Plasmodium falciparum, is an increasing concern in Calabria.
- Rising refugee influx from endemic areas heightens public health risks.
- Timely diagnosis, reporting, and chemoprophylaxis are crucial for malaria control.