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Malaria in Britain: 1977-86.
P A Phillips-Howard1, D J Bradley, M Blaze
1Ross Institute, London.
British Medical Journal (Clinical Research Ed.)
|January 23, 1988
Summary
Malaria cases in Britain rose 51% in a decade, with Plasmodium falciparum infections increasing significantly. Risk is highest for ethnic minorities, West African residents, and tourists, particularly men and children.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Malaria incidence in Britain has seen a notable increase over the past ten years.
- Plasmodium falciparum infections now represent a larger proportion of total malaria cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in malaria incidence and characteristics of infections reported in Britain.
- To identify high-risk populations and geographical risk factors for malaria in the UK.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of malaria case data reported to the Malaria Reference Laboratory over a decade.
- Calculation of attack rates for different demographic groups and travel scenarios.
Main Results:
- Total malaria cases increased by 51% (1529 to 2309).
- Plasmodium falciparum cases rose from one-fifth to one-third of all infections.
- Case fatality rate for P. falciparum decreased from 2.7% to 0.5%.
- High-risk groups include resident ethnic minorities, West African visitors, and tourists to Kenya.
- Men, children, and young adults showed higher attack rates.
- Immigrants visiting relatives in Africa and Asia had the highest attack rates.
Conclusions:
- Malaria remains a significant imported disease in Britain, with changing patterns of infection.
- Targeted prevention strategies are needed for high-risk groups, including ethnic minorities and travelers.
- Continued surveillance is crucial for monitoring malaria trends and informing public health interventions.