Malaria
Temas abordados
Malaria
Temas abordados
Malaria outbreaks occur in regions with low immunity because the populations have less exposure to the parasite, leading to insufficient immune defense. Vulnerable populations include children and individuals in non-endemic regions. This lack of immunity means that any increase in transmission can rapidly escalate to epidemic levels .
Eradicating P. vivax malaria is challenging due to its ability to cause recurring infections through dormant liver hypnozoites. Targeting these requires additional drugs, like primaquine, alongside standard treatment, which can complicate efforts due to drug resistance, side effects, and the need for advanced diagnostics. Comprehensive strategies must therefore focus on biology-specific interventions, improved diagnostics, and adherence to treatment protocols .
Between 2000 and 2013, global malaria incidence decreased by 30% and mortality by 47%. Contributing factors included increased distribution of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, improved diagnostics and treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapies. Policies from global health initiatives also played a critical role in coordinating and funding efforts .
The primary types of plasmodium that cause malaria are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium knowlesi. Among these, Plasmodium falciparum is the most lethal, causing higher morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in children .
Partial immunity, developed over years in endemic regions, can lead to asymptomatic infections and reduced disease severity in adults. In contrast, young children lack this immunity, making them prone to severe outcomes, like anemia or cerebral malaria. As endemic transmission declines, adults may again face severe disease presentation due to reduced exposure .
Controlling malaria in regions like Loreto, Peru, is challenging due to a high number of cases, with 82% caused by P. Vivax and 18% by P. Falciparum . The predominance of P. Vivax requires addressing recurrent infections and dormant liver forms. Remote geography complicates healthcare access and vector control measures, necessitating tailored approaches to local epidemiology .
Human behaviors, such as night-time activities outdoors and settlement in areas with stagnant water, can increase exposure to Anopheles mosquitoes. Settlements near breeding sites like rice paddies or deforested areas can facilitate increased transmission. Traditional housing without proper screening may also contribute to vulnerability, highlighting the importance of community education and infrastructure improvement .
Climatic conditions influence malaria transmission by affecting mosquito populations and their survival rates. High rainfall can create breeding sites, higher temperatures can accelerate mosquito lifecycle and parasite development, while humidity can extend mosquito lifespan. These factors collectively increase transmission intensity during rainy seasons or favor epidemic outbreaks under sudden favorable conditions .
Measures to achieve the Millennium Development Goals for malaria included expanding access to preventative tools like bed nets and antimalarial treatments, alongside stronger funding and policy frameworks. By 2014, 64 countries met the goal of reducing malaria incidence, with 55 on track to reduce it by 75% by 2015. These successes illustrate significant progress in global coordinated strategies .
Multiple plasmodium species complicate malaria treatment and recurrence. P. falciparum requires immediate treatment due to its severity, whereas P. vivax and P. ovale can cause recurrence through dormant liver stages (hypnozoites), requiring special treatment. Insufficient treatment can lead to relapses, making comprehensive treatment strategies essential for effective management and prevention of recurrences .