Epidemiology of malaria in Ramhormoz county, Southwest of Iran, during 2001-2016

Introduction: One of the most important infectious diseases, especially in subtropical and tropical regions in developing countries is Malaria.Due to the importance of the infectious disease in these areas, the aim of current study is to evaluate epidemiology of malaria through microscopic evaluation in Ramhormoz County, southwest of Iran, during 2001-2016. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the blood specimens were collected from all suspicious malaria individuals referred to the Ramhormoz Healthcare Network. For the preparation of peripheral blood smears, one drop of sample was carefully placed on a microscopic slide and the slide was also stained by the Giemsa staining. In order to the detection of the parasite, the peripheral blood smears were evaluated via optical microscope. Results: In this study, of 2769, 40 (1.44%) individuals were infected to Plasmodium vivax. The highest frequent of malaria was observed in 2001, 2002 with 13 (8.49%) and 11 (6.79%) cases, respectively as well as the lowest prevalence was seen in 2007, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2015 with nil case. From a total of 40 malaria confirmed cases during the years, 34 (85%) and 6 (15%) were male and female, respectively. Also, of 40, 34 (85%) and 6 (15%) cases were lived in the rural and urban areas, respectively. Conclusion: These findings showed a significant decrease in malaria incidence in Ramhormoz County, southwest of Iran during 2001-2016. Based on the climatic status of the County, the risk of malaria epidemics must be considered constantly and the control programs should be continued until the elimination of disease.