Imported Malaria Cases and Fatality in East Africa: A Review

Nyambura Achieng M.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a critical public health challenge in East Africa, with endemic transmission in many regions. Recent trends, however, show an alarming rise in imported malaria cases—wherein individuals contract malaria in endemic areas and transport it to regions with lower or no endemicity. This review examines the epidemiology of imported malaria in East Africa, with a focus on contributing factors such as international travel, migration, and inadequate vector control. The fatality rates associated with imported malaria, often driven by delayed diagnosis, drug resistance, and limited healthcare resources, are explored in depth. The review highlights the risk factors for imported malaria, including the role of expatriates, tourists, refugees, and migrants in the cross-border transmission of malaria. In particular, non-immune individuals such as travelers are highly susceptible to severe disease, often leading to fatalities when treatment is delayed. In addition, the review discusses the complex transmission dynamics that arise from overlapping malaria transmission zones within East Africa, further complicating efforts to distinguish domestic from imported cases. Management strategies to combat imported malaria, including strengthening surveillance systems at entry points, enhancing diagnostic capabilities, and ensuring access to effective treatments, are outlined. The importance of cross-border collaboration between East African nations to harmonize malaria control strategies is emphasized. Additionally, the review identifies future research directions, including the need for more detailed epidemiological studies, ongoing drug resistance monitoring, and policy development to address the complexities of imported malaria. This comprehensive analysis underscores the significance of addressing imported malaria as a critical element in the broader fight against the disease, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to mitigate its impact on healthcare systems and prevent further transmission in East Africa.

Keywords: Imported Malaria, Cases, Fatality, East Africa.

CITE AS Nyambura Achieng M. (2024). Imported Malaria Cases and Fatality in East Africa: A Review. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND PHARMACY 3(3): 16-21.  https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJPP/2024/331621