Imported malaria and high risk groups: observational study using UK surveillance data 1987-2006

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Malaria remains a significant global health concern, with imported cases posing a challenge to non-endemic countries like the UK.
• Understanding trends in malaria reporting and case fatality is essential for effective public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze temporal, geographic, and sociodemographic patterns of malaria case reporting and fatality in the United Kingdom from 1987 to 2006.
• To identify risk factors and high-risk populations for imported malaria in the UK.

Main Methods:

• An observational study utilizing national malaria reference laboratory surveillance data from the UK.
• Analysis included 39,300 malaria cases, examining Plasmodium species, sociodemographic factors, travel details, and chemoprophylaxis use.

Main Results:

• Reported imported malaria cases increased significantly, with a rising proportion of Plasmodium falciparum infections.
• Plasmodium vivax cases declined, while case fatality for Plasmodium falciparum remained stable.
• Travelers visiting friends and relatives, particularly from Africa and Asia, represented the largest group and had a higher risk of malaria, with lower chemoprophylaxis use.

Conclusions:

• Despite effective preventive measures, the burden of imported Plasmodium falciparum malaria has increased in the UK.
• Targeted prevention strategies and health messages are essential for travelers visiting friends and relatives, especially those from migrant families.
• Addressing the specific needs of this high-risk group is a public health priority to reduce preventable malaria cases.