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Imported malaria in children in Madrid, Spain, 2007-2013
Beatriz Soto Sánchez1, L M Prieto Tato1, S Guillén Martín1
1Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain.
Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiologia Clinica
|February 27, 2017
Summary
Imported malaria in children visiting friends and relatives (VFRs) is a significant concern in Europe. VFRs experienced delayed diagnosis and more severe symptoms, highlighting the need for better travel health education.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Travel Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Imported malaria cases in Europe are predominantly diagnosed in individuals visiting friends and relatives (VFRs).
- Children represent 15-20% of imported malaria cases and face a higher risk of severe disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze imported malaria cases in children under 16 years old in Madrid, Spain.
- To identify risk factors and clinical characteristics associated with malaria in pediatric VFRs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective multicenter study conducted in 24 hospitals in Madrid.
- Inclusion criteria: patients under 16 years diagnosed with malaria between 2007 and 2013.
Main Results:
- 149 malaria episodes were reported in 147 children, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most common species.
- Twenty-five patients developed severe malaria, and one death occurred.
- VFRs constituted 45.8% of cases, with inadequate prophylaxis uptake (only 17/149 received it, 4 appropriately).
- VFRs presented with more frequent and prolonged fever, delayed diagnosis (>3 days), and higher rates of thrombocytopenia compared to non-VFRs (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- VFRs are a significant population for imported pediatric malaria.
- Inadequate prophylaxis and delayed medical consultation in VFRs contribute to prolonged illness and diagnostic delays.
- Enhanced pre-travel education and preventive advice are crucial for VFRs to mitigate malaria risks.
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