Climate Change and Malaria Epidemiology

Chelimo Faith Rebecca

Department of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry Kampala International University Uganda

Email: rebecca.chelimo@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a critical driver influencing the global epidemiology of malaria. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and altered humidity levels have reshaped the geographical distribution, intensity, and seasonality of malaria transmission. This review synthesizes current evidence on the complex interplay between climate variability and malaria dynamics, emphasizing how warmer climates expand vector habitats, modify parasite development rates, and extend transmission seasons. Particular attention is given to regions at high altitude and those previously unsuitable for malaria, where climate change is creating new ecological niches for vectors. The paper also examines methodological approaches to studying climate–malaria linkages, highlights the uncertainties and challenges in predicting future disease patterns, and underscores the role of adaptive strategies in mitigating the health burden. Ultimately, the integration of climate science, epidemiological data, and public health interventions is essential to address the evolving threats posed by malaria in a warming world.

Keywords: Climate change; Malaria epidemiology; Vector-borne diseases; Anopheles mosquitoes; Global health; Disease modeling; Public health adaptation