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Updated: May 16, 2026
13:39
Protocol for Production of a Genetic Cross of the Rodent Malaria Parasites
Published on: January 3, 2011
Malaria in Greece, 1975 to 2010
A Vakali1, E Patsoula, G Spanakos
1Hellenic Centre for Diseases Control and Prevention, Athens, Greece. annita86@windowslive.com
Summary
Greece eliminated malaria in 1974, but imported cases persist. Recent P. vivax malaria cases in Greek citizens highlight the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and mosquito control to prevent reintroduction.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Greece officially eradicated malaria in 1974.
- Since then, imported malaria cases have been annually reported, totaling 1,419 laboratory-confirmed cases between 1975 and 2010.
- Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax were the predominant species identified in imported cases.
Observation:
- Imported malaria cases were predominantly observed in males (79%) and individuals aged 18-40 years (72%).
- The majority of malaria cases acquired abroad between 1999 and 2010 originated from Africa (55%) and Asia (37%).
- Sporadic introduced malaria cases, particularly Plasmodium vivax, have emerged in specific regions of Greece, notably in agricultural areas with abundant Anopheles mosquito vectors.
Findings:
- Between 1975 and 2010, 1,419 malaria cases were reported, with Plasmodium falciparum (44%) and Plasmodium vivax (37%) being the most common.
- In 2011, 27 Plasmodium vivax cases were reported in Greek citizens in Lakonia with no travel history, indicating local transmission.
- Further Plasmodium vivax cases in Lakonia and East Attica in 2012 underscore the risk of malaria re-establishment.
Implications:
- The presence of competent Anopheles vectors and recent autochthonous cases necessitate strengthened disease surveillance.
- Integrated mosquito control programs are crucial to mitigate the risk of malaria reintroduction and re-establishment in Greece.
- Continuous monitoring and rapid response are essential to maintain Greece's malaria-free status.
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