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[Imported malaria in Brest hospitals from 1974 to 1980]
Abstract:
From 1974 to 1980, 42 confirmed hospital cases of imported malaria occurred in Brest. For 4 cases, we have no information. For the others, 24 care Europeans and 14 non-Europeans. Among the Europeans, the merchant-seamen are the most exposed group. A high proportion of infections are due to Plasmodium falciparum, mainly from black Africa. One patient had a neuropaludism and three had serious attacks. In about half of patients, the initial diagnosis was not malaria. All cases of P. falciparum were due to lack or inadequate chemoprophylaxis.
Insights
Imported malaria cases in Brest (1974-1980) were primarily Plasmodium falciparum infections from Africa. Inadequate chemoprophylaxis was a significant factor in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Infectious diseases epidemiology
Context:
- Analysis of 42 imported malaria hospital cases in Brest between 1974 and 1980.
- Identified demographic and risk factors among affected populations, including Europeans and non-Europeans.
Purpose:
- To investigate the epidemiology of imported malaria in Brest.
- To identify risk factors and causative Plasmodium species.
- To assess diagnostic accuracy and the role of chemoprophylaxis.
Summary:
- 42 confirmed imported malaria cases were reported, with Plasmodium falciparum being the predominant species, mainly acquired from black Africa.
- Merchant seamen represented a highly exposed group among Europeans. Neuropaludism and severe attacks occurred in a subset of patients.
- Delayed or incorrect initial diagnosis was common; all P. falciparum infections were linked to insufficient or absent chemoprophylaxis.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of chemoprophylaxis adherence for preventing malaria in travelers.
- Underscores challenges in timely malaria diagnosis in non-endemic settings.
- Provides data for public health interventions and malaria control strategies in port cities.