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Malaria outbreak among French army troops returning from the Ivory Coast
Aurélie Mayet1, David Lacassagne, Nicolas Juzan
1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Northern Sector, Val-de-Grâce School of Military Medicine, Paris, France. aurelie marie@hotmail.fr
Journal of Travel Medicine
|October 6, 2010
Abstract:
In 2006, a French Army unit reported 39 malaria cases among service persons returning from Ivory Coast. Thirty, including three serious forms, occurred after the return to France. The risk of post-return malaria was higher than the risk in Ivory Coast. Half of the imported cases had stopped post-return chemoprophylaxis early.
Insights
Malaria cases occurred in French soldiers returning from Ivory Coast, with a higher risk post-return. Many imported malaria cases resulted from early cessation of chemoprophylaxis.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases Epidemiology
Background:
- Military personnel deployed to malaria-endemic regions face significant health risks.
- Imported malaria cases pose a public health concern, particularly upon return to non-endemic areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence and characteristics of malaria cases in a French Army unit returning from Ivory Coast in 2006.
- To assess the risk factors associated with post-return malaria, including chemoprophylaxis adherence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of malaria cases reported within a specific French Army unit.
- Review of medical records and travel history for diagnosed cases.
Main Results:
- 39 malaria cases were reported among service members returning from Ivory Coast.
- 30 cases, including three severe forms, manifested after arrival in France.
- The incidence of malaria was higher after returning to France than in Ivory Coast.
- 50% of imported malaria cases involved individuals who prematurely discontinued chemoprophylaxis.
Conclusions:
- Post-return malaria poses a significant risk to military personnel returning from endemic areas.
- Inadequate adherence to chemoprophylaxis regimens is a critical factor contributing to imported malaria.
- Enhanced surveillance and adherence promotion are crucial for preventing post-return malaria in military populations.
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