[Imported malaria in northern central Morocco, 1997-2007]

After the elimination of autochthonous malaria in Morocco in 2004, control of imported malaria, based on epidemiological monitoring of the parasite and vector control, has become a priority. This retrospective study concerns imported malaria cases identified by optical microscopy at the regional epidemiological diagnostic laboratory of the Regional Health Department of Fes from 1997 through 2007. The results obtained showed that 56 of 68 (82%) samples examined were positive. Women accounted for 21% of cases, and all patients were older than 15 years. The positive cases were imported from 13 African countries, in particular, Côte d'Ivoire (14%) and Congo and Burkina Faso (11%). Incidence was highest in 2002 with 11 cases, 1998 with 9 cases, and 2004 and 2005, with 8 each year. Only one death was recorded, in 2002. The species found were Plasmodium falciparum, in 50 cases (89%), Plasmodium vivax in 4 (7%) and Plasmodium ovale in 2 (4%). The city of Fes, capital of the Fes-Boulemane region in northern central Morocco, as a capital, university town, and important spiritual centre, attracts many visitors from countries of sub-Saharan Africa where malaria is endemic. It is thus essential to maintain a high level of malaria monitoring and control in this area. The results of this study will undoubtedly help to guide the programme for imported malaria control and monitoring in our area, as well as the national programme against this disease.