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Two vivax malaria cases detected in Korea
1Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea.
The Korean Journal of Parasitology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Two malaria cases were diagnosed in South Korea near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This finding highlights the need for enhanced malaria surveillance in the region.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Entomology
Background:
- The Republic of Korea (ROK) has been malaria-free since the mid-1970s, with exceptions only for imported cases.
- Recent diagnoses of Plasmodium vivax malaria in 1993 and 1994 in areas near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) raised concerns.
Observation:
- Two malaria cases were consecutively diagnosed in June and July 1994 at Yongsan Hospital, Chung-Ang University, Seoul.
- The affected individuals were a soldier stationed in the western DMZ and a local resident near the DMZ, with no history of international travel.
- Mosquito surveillance in June revealed a high prevalence of Anopheles sinensis, accounting for 91.5% of collected specimens.
Findings:
- The occurrence of locally transmitted vivax malaria cases in proximity to the DMZ suggests a potential resurgence.
- Epidemiological investigation, including examination of medical records and blood smears, did not identify additional cases in the immediate vicinity.
- Anopheles sinensis mosquitoes, a known vector for malaria, were found in significant numbers in the affected area.
Implications:
- The recent malaria cases necessitate the implementation of a robust epidemiological surveillance system in the affected regions.
- Understanding the transmission dynamics and vector prevalence is crucial for preventing future outbreaks.
- Continued monitoring is essential to confirm whether these cases represent isolated incidents or the re-establishment of malaria transmission in the ROK.